The weight will not be an issue. What is becoming a problem is the number of bags being carried on in general v checked in. As example on AMS to DUB this week the passenger information list should 162 passengers but only 8 had bags checked in. Before boarding the gate staff started tagging bags to be put in the hold as clearly not enough room in the overhead lockers. This annoyed passengers but then again some take it to the extreme trying to get 2 or even 3 bags on in hand luggage.

I've seen this happen at DUB too. As a "thank you" for checking in bag at gate you can be offered zone A boarding. Personally this is of little incentive.

Perhaps if EI changed policies and prices for baggage it would improve. Either reduce price or enforce the hand baggage policy more strictly.

On a BA flight DUB to LCY last week it was actually cheaper to check a bag in than take carry on and can avail of seat selection etc. There was no hassle at gate and sense of calm while boarding.