The need for a "lyric theatre" in Dublin: We are the only capital city in Europe without an opera house, and that opera house could double up for the panto, for dance.

Leaving Dublin after school: I just wanted to get the hell out.

On taking up the goodwill of a company to set up her own business: I decided I was better off looking after my own destiny rather than going out looking for another job.

The controversial £4 "tourist tax": Nobody likes to tax their customers, but we would reluctantly go along with it if the Exchequer does not come up with any other way of providing marketing funds.

The industry's future: We recognise that the challenge that lies ahead is to manage our success. That is why the major objective we have in the overall industry is spatial spread, spreading the business outwards and extending the season.

Dispensing with the typewriter: I used to be known as a Luddite in the office. I was a late converter to computer skills.

Future trends: I think cultural tourism is something that is going to take off in a big way. It would include anything from festivals to summer schools to specialised interest.