Connacht's future is still in the balance following an often stormy IRFU committee meeting in Dublin on Thursday evening.

While there was a stay of execution for Ireland's Cinderella province, the future still remains bleak.

Following a four-hour meeting the IRFU released a statement saying that no decision was taken on the future of Connacht as a professional rugby entity.

However, the same 22-man IRFU Committee will meet again in a fortnight when it's believed a decision to pull the plug will be recommended.

I will not be backing a decision to put money into the IRFU for stadia or anything else Fianna Fail's Frank Fahey

Whether that will receive backing is a moot point with momentum growing to keep Connacht afloat.

The statement went on to say that all finances at various levels were discussed, and stressed that the IRFU will not go any deeper into the red.

The IRFU are on course for a �2.5m deficit this year and expect that to nearly double next season.

The statement said: ''All aspects of its operations including domestic, club and schools' rugby, professional rugby and overheads were discussed.

''The IRFU should not plan for an operational deficit and in this regard there will need to be a reduction in overall expenditure.

''There should also be an increase in income to ensure the IRFU does not move into an unsustainable financial situation.

Decision makers

''No decisions, contrary to media comment, have been made in relation to where expenditure can be reduced across the spectrum of IRFU activities.

''The IRFU will give further consideration to the serious and complex issues involved.

''In the meantime, the IRFU will be having a further meeting with representatives of the Irish Rugby Union Players' Association, at their request to further brief them.''

It is believed that only four of the 22-man committee are against the demise of Connacht.

Eric Elwood: Connacht stalwart

The finding at the next meeting will be referred to the ultimate decision-making IRFU council early in Feburary.

The IRFU, though, could come under pressure from politicians.

Fianna Fail's Frank Fahey, a former Minister of Sport, threws his lot firmly behind the western province.

He said he would object strongly to any money coming the government to back a plan to build a new stadium.

''I've already spoken to a number of my colleagues in the west,'' said Fahy on RTE radio.

''We will strongly object to any money being given to the IRFU to develop Lansdowne Road or any other stadium if they cut the nose of Connacht rugby.

''I will not be backing a decision to put money into the IRFU for stadia or anything else.''

The future of Connacht has put a shadow over their Parker Pen Challenge Cup quarter-final against Pontypridd on Saturday in Athlone.