2010 was a disastrous one for Taoiseach Brian Cowen, but he is far from alone, writes Shaun Connolly, Political Correspondent

THERE he was again — drinking and laughing as if nothing had happened.

SUDDENLY, Brian Cowen cut a chastened, hunted figure – the arrogance of a few hours earlier gone as he stood alone knowing his removal from office was now far closer than he had realised.

THEY are not called “drink-ins” for nothing.