Looking at the satellite loops, it seems there is something going on between the low level circulation and the mid levels, either it's struggling a bit or it may be attempting to separate or reform again. Recon is out there finding 988 mb pressure readings though. Irene still isn't well defined near the center, even as a hurricane (relatively, it still is pretty strong), with most of the convection to the north side of the center.

Hispaniola has had a history of odd affects on tropical cyclones (other than just weakening), and it may be related to that. Track/intensity are going to be a bit more up in the air until it clears Hispaniola. Still the eastern trend is the most solid thing right now.