I think true equality for women will come when there are the same number of mediocre women as there are mediocre men in senior positions.

On sexism in the workplace.

I think we still have a situation where men make decisions and women still have to make babies. Childcare is the major unresolved issue of our time.

On pressures for working mothers.

Americans understand the nature of risk, and they are not risk aversive in the way a lot of Irish people are.

On the value of the US entrepreneurial spirit.

So much of the work is promoting, promoting, promoting.

On her role as chief executive.

We have this flexible labour structure in Ireland. That is extremely attractive to US companies.

On comparing work regulations to other EU countries.

There has been a constant stream of foreign journalists. They are seriously trying to crack this nut. It is like the Holy Grail for them.

On the mystery of the Celtic tiger for foreigners.