Sources say the delay doesn’t mean a programme won’t be agreed but it is not yet ready to be signed off.

Nevertheless this development does raise obvious questions about the four party coalition’s ability to govern cohesively.

There had previously been an expectation that the programme for government would be agreed before the anniversary of Stormont’s return earlier this month, however, that did not happen.

One source played down the significance of the delay saying “there’s no showstoppers in this”.

BBC News NI understands a document was circulated late last week, changes were suggested by Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir late on Tuesday night and a decision was taken that these could not be made before Wednesday’s meeting.

“It’s a process story,” added the source, “but there’s no sugar coating a postponement and the media is entitled to ask questions.”