1982

Ireland experiences its worst winter in 50 years. A controversial Budget leads to the collapse of the Fine Gael–Labour government, triggering an election. Charles Haughey survives a leadership challenge and becomes Taoiseach. Independent TD Tony Gregory secures a £90m deal for Dublin’s inner city. Poland remains under martial law, banning ‘Solidarity,’ though Lech Walesa is freed. Ireland wins the Triple Crown after 33 years. Argentina invades the Falklands, sparking a British military response; 255 Britons and 652 Argentinians die. Belfast’s DeLorean plant shuts down, costing 1,500 jobs. The IRA bombs London, killing eight. Two brutal murders lead to Malcolm MacArthur’s arrest at the Attorney General’s home, forcing the AG’s resignation. Fianna Fáil debates Haughey’s leadership; he wins an open vote. In November, the government loses a confidence vote, prompting Ireland’s third election in 18 months. Fine Gael and Labour return to power.