Others are still struggling with bureaucratic delays, years after they first applied for benefits.

But that wouldn't have been a good answer, either; in most instances, bureaucratic delay is not the best way to make policy.

"There was a bureaucratic delay in the system which we all regret."

The officials said the Europeans had been slowed by bureaucratic delays.

"There were technical and bureaucratic delays for political reasons," he said.

The measure would have gone into effect several months ago but for bureaucratic delays.

But I hate bureaucratic delay while citizens suffer even more.

There have been other problems too, including bureaucratic delays, political differences, disputes over design and financing.

The new law would set up a single agency to consider investment projects and reduce bureaucratic delays.

However, funding problems, bureaucratic delays, lack of political will and difficult security conditions prolonged the process.