asterisk users - Oct 2006 - IAX2 outgoing calls delayed before they connect

Hi, everybody:

I have just set up a system with a regional VOIP provider.

I have two IAX channels to this provider.

Incoming calls ring a configured SIP extension immediately, but outgoing
calls are delayed for about 8 to 10 seconds before the remote PSTN end
starts ringing:
>     -- Called [IAX2 channel]
>     -- Call accepted by [IAX2 provider IP] (format ulaw)
>     -- Format for call is ulaw
>     -- IAX2/[channel ID] is making progress passing it to SIP/polycom
>     -- Hungup 'IAX2/[channel ID]'
The first three steps happen instantly; between "Format..." and
"IAX2/[channel ID]..." there is a delay of about 8 - 10 seconds. The
calling party hears nothing during this time.

Is the source of this problem local, or should I be bugging our provider
about this?

Thanks,

-Stephen-