As for another body that likes to make robust critiques, the Competition Authority seems to have passed the staffing crisis that saw it "barely operational" last year. Work delayed by staff departures is under way, but some projects are still held up.

In March last year, the Tβnaiste Ms Harney requested a study of the Casual Trading Act. "It is the Authority's intention to complete the study in 2001 and report to the Tβnaiste," said a briefing document released this week.

Ms Harney waits patiently, it is presumed.