1992

In 1992, Ireland's High Court initially prevents a 14-year-old from travelling for an abortion, sparking the 'X' Case debate and a referendum. Unemployment hits record levels, with 290,000 out of work, particularly in Cork. The Labour Party in Britain seems poised for victory, but John Major leads the Tories to a fourth successive win. Joe Hendron of the SDLP wins the West Belfast seat from Gerry Adams. Los Angeles experiences the Rodney King race riots after four policemen are acquitted. RTÉ goes on strike for six weeks. Sean Doherty implicates Charles Haughey in a phone-tapping scandal, leading to Haughey's resignation and Albert Reynolds becoming Taoiseach. Dr. Eamonn Casey flees after admitting an affair. In sports, Ireland celebrates Michael Carruth’s Olympic gold. Bill Clinton wins the U.S. presidency. Political instability marks 1992, including the Beef Tribunal and a hung election.