The New Irish election looms as splinter party bridles

Irish Prime Minister Charles Haughey faces a crucial vote in parliament today (Nov. 4) which will probably end his eight-month-old minority government and precipitate the third Irish general election in 18 months.

His chances of survival looked slim after the small Workers Party, which holds the balance of power, said its three parliamentary deputies would vote against the government. The vote concerns his economic policy, including plans to cut government spending.