1 - What is IRC? Some shit all mtgox users need to know how to use to get ahold of them?
2 - What do they want their support ticketing system for if you have to use one half-dead pre-historical messaging system to get support?
I know you are trying to help, but the OP do have a valid point.
From everything I've read on here, MtGox support absolutely sucks. I agree that it's absurd people should have to go to IRC to get issues resolved quickly but it does seem to be the quickest way to get hold of MagicalTux if you're having issues which may need to be fixed manually.
The delay in processing the withdrawal doesn't sound unusual - none of the exchanges seem to offer instant withdrawal facilities - but because the amount of the withdrawal is substantial and above their normal withdrawal limits, it's probably better to follow it up sooner rather than later.