Lighting problems mean the Spire on Dublin's O'Connell Street will not be officially unveiled as originally planned during the St Patrick's Day festivities.
A spokesman for the O'Connell Street project said yesterday that the delay was due to problems with the aviation and architectural lighting.
Lights within the structure are meant to illuminate the top of the Spire through 11,884 tiny holes.
"The problem is not with the electrical system, but with the prototype of light being used," said the spokesman.
"It is very disappointing that we are not going to be able to unveil it as part of the celebrations this weekend. There is no point rushing it. We want to just make sure we get it right."
Until then, the bottom section of the 120-metre-high structure will remain covered in black plastic wrapping.
The spokesman also said no decision had been made on the format of the final opening ceremony, though it is expected that the Lord Mayor, Mr Dermot Lacey, will officiate.
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