The merger of the Cavan-Monaghan Garda Division with Louth won't happen until later this year at the earliest.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris announced in 2019 that the three divisions would merge under the new operational plan.
The news was met with criticism locally as the division's headquarters would move to Drogheda from Monaghan town.
Concerns were raised about the size of the new Division, with it covering a distance from Blacklion to the east coast.
However, Brexit and the Covid pandemic led to a delay in the merger and Cavan and Monaghan have been left without a dedicated Chief Superintendent since the retirement of John O'Reilly.
Sligo-Leitrim Chief Superintendent Aidan Glackin has been carrying out duties since.
Monaghan's Joint Policing Committee meeting yesterday heard the merger won't begin until later this year when the business services units transfer.
Chief Superintendent Glackin told the meeting that won't happen before the end of the year, with further departments merging afterwards.
He also said a decision on a new Chief Superintendent is one for the Garda Commissioner but he would continue to oversee duties locally until one is appointed.
