Patrick Joseph Walsh, 75, from Kilanny near Carrickmacross, died after doctors were prevented from performing an operation to save his life because of restrictions on surgery at Monaghan.

It emerged last week that the HSE has received the report but still has not released it to the Walsh family, a decision which has been criticised by CavanMonaghan independent TD Paudge Connolly.

"I believe the report is in the possession of the HSE and it is only adding to the agony of the Walsh family that it has not been presented to them, " he said. "The family are not being treated fairly by the HSE as they are seeing the whole thing played out in the media. It is very frustrating that the HSE has not yet released the report and it should not prolong it any further."

After Walsh's death last October, it emerged that emergency beds were available in several nearby hospitals. Tanaiste and health minister Mary Harney ordered the inquiry into the incident and said it would be completed within eight weeks.

"The report is five months overdue, " Connolly said. "I can't see how the HSE has any compassion when it is leaving the family waiting like this."