Are you a saver or a spender?
I don't feel I fit in either category as, to be a saver or a spender, one must first have money – a thing that self-employed social entrepreneurs and activists have little of!
Do you shop around for better value?
I am obsessed with getting value for money. Paying more than what something is worth just doesn't make any sense.
What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?
I spent €600 on a VIP ticket to see Madonna in London. This was only for the ticket – without flights and accommodation.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
I have loved wearing men's clothes since I was a teenager. Last December, my first men's tuxedo cost me just under €200 in a sale, but since then I've worn it to a wedding, an award ceremony and two photo shoots. That's value for money.
What ways do you prefer to shop – online or local?
I have always liked to shop local. Shopping online is a last resort for me.
Do you haggle over prices?
Never! My mother used to do that when I was growing up and I'd be mortified by it.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
I was never extravagant. The recession has impacted my earnings, so I've had to adjust my spending habits.
Do you invest in shares?
No. I've never even considered it as I've always felt it was too much of a gamble.
Cash or card?
In the last couple of years I made a choice to use cash instead of card. Paying with cash stops me from overspending.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
The last thing I bought was a bulb. The mental health support centre, Insight Matters, I co-founded in 2011 has taken on an additional room. The light fittings in the room are quite old and use outdated bulbs. I found equivalent energy-efficient bulbs.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
No, as all big purchases have been thanks to a little help from my bank or my credit union.
Have you ever lost money?
I lost money once when my wallet was stolen, but I am glad to say that I haven't lost money through any investments in my life.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
Gambling has never interested me, and I always found it a waste of money.
Is money important to you?
I am more concerned with social justice, mental health, integration, inclusion and so many social issues that face Ireland today. Money is something I need just to pay the bills.
How much money do you have on you now?
I put on a pair of pants that I haven't worn in a while and found €20.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
