Café bar U-turn - FF and PDs stick it out for votes

DESPITE the rearguard efforts of Tánaiste Mary Harney and Justice Minister Michael McDowell to paper over the cracks, there is no denying tensions are ratcheting up in an increasingly tetchy coalition marriage.

The relationship between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats is showing all the telltale signs of strain, as nervous backbenchers, fearful for their jobs and confused by the latest opinion polls, uneasily prepare to give an account of themselves to an unpredictable electorate at some point in the next two years.

When differences emerged recently between Ms Harney and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern over Government policy on a second terminal at Dublin airport, the battle was won decisively by Fianna Fáil. Unfortunately, the outcome of that fight will prolong the frustrations of weary air travellers.