"Commission hungry Ryanair gate person" isn't exactly an accurate description - does anyone actually believe Ryanair offer commission? Since when did they offer "carrots" rather than "sticks"? They put lots of pressure on their handling agents to enforce the rules, rather than offering actual incentives which might, god forbid, actually cost them money! Personally, I haven't had any problems carrying a duty free bag on in addition to my hand luggage, but I understand I may be in a minority.