The HSE has confirmed that a report on the location of the new regional hospital for the northeast will not be completed until late autumn.
It had originally been expected a study would have been completed several weeks ago, identifying the new site.
Following a number of highly-controversial patient deaths, the HSE ordered an examination of the way the health service is delivered in the northeast.
In June of last year they published the report.
One of the key recommendations was the setting up of a new regional hospital to replace the five general hospitals that presently exist.
The five general hospitals would then focus on local services.
The HSE engaged a Dublin company, the Health Partnership, to carry out a study on where the new hospital should be located. A total of 44 submissions were received from individuals, groups and local authorities.
It had been expected that location study would have been concluded early in July. Now, however, the HSE has confirmed it is not expected until late autumn.
No reason has been given for the delay, although the HSE say it is a very extensive and detailed study.
The HSE has also confirmed that, following a review of the way changes are being implemented to the service in the region, it has accepted there is a need to accelerate it and it has appointed more staff to the process.
As part of this programme, the Chief Executive of the HSE, Prof Brendan Drumm has now joined the project's Steering Group.
Meanwhile, preparatory work has begun in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for an expansion of the A&E facilities.
It will double the size of the unit which has frequently been hit by overcrowding.
It is expected it will be operational by October of next year.
