Rose sows unrest between her sons, Freddie asks Declan to negotiate with the competition and Tommy and Dana see more of each other.
Michael and Kath prepare for an addition to the family; Tommy tries to clean up a bad neighbourhood; Eileen gains perspective; Rose struggles with ageing.
Unhappy being the speaker's lackey, Tommy explores the possibility of leaving politics, Rose's birthday party attracts both of her feuding sons, and Declan is offered an opportunity to investigate government corruption.
Tommy blackmails Mayor Panzarella into supporting the waterfront development but runs into opposition from a community group organised by Michael. Freddi Cork is forced to take a legitimate job as a car salesman, Eileen's pregnancy costs her a chance to advance, and Declan begins his investigation into statehouse corruption as the disappearance of Federal Attorney Franklin draws attention away from his efforts.