Opening Lines

THERE are times when public opinion is a bit like one of those termite clouds that appeared in old cartoons.

The Pink Panther, Popeye and Tom and Jerry have all been at the mercy of the relentless insects. The main character would be enjoying a relaxing cocktail/spinach/beating when they would hear a buzzing noise, a cloud would appear and their chair would disappear in a small pile of dust.

In the last few weeks, the public opinion cloud has briefly alighted on teachers with megaphones, is currently working its way through Irish Water and former regulator Patrick Neary and will soon head off to the next target — no doubt someone who makes a gaffe in the upcoming elections.