Tension outside Leinster House as journalists and the public await the outcome of a vote of no confidence in Taoiseach Charles Haughey.
The Fianna Fáil parliamentary party met at Leinster House well before lunchtime on 9 November 1991. By 10pm, the meeting is showing no sign of conclusion.
Minister for Finance Albert Reynolds has launched a leadership challenge against Charles Haughey. Journalists are not leaving until they learn whether the Taoiseach has managed to overcome the fourth challenge to his leadership.
The assembled journalists are joined by members of the public enjoying their Saturday night, and the media vigil takes on a jovial mood. There is no sign of Charles Haughey, but those gathered on Kildare Street are more than satisfied by the appearance of RTÉ journalist Charlie Bird.
As the night progresses it becomes clear that Charles Haughey will survive in style. His supporters want to be there for the moment of triumph. The atmosphere turns rowdy outside Government Buildings and Minister for the Environment and Local Government Noel Dempsey emerges to appeal for calm.
Shortly after 2 am the meeting breaks up and over the next 90 minutes the crowds disperse. Those who remain are,
Left pondering how once again Charles Haughey had lived up to his reputation as the great survivor.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 10 November 1991. The reporter is Tom Kelly
