ME AND MY MONEY: FRANCIS BRENNAN Park Hotel Kenmare and television presenter
Are you a saver or a spender?
I have always been a saver and had a pension since I was 24, but I have been wiped out over the past three years due to the property crash.
Do you shop around for better value?
Just this past hour I saved over €200 on a three-day van rental in Spain in October, having rooted round a few sites I know.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
On a special trip to Dubai I purchased a first-class ticket on Qatar air out of London. It cost over €4,000, but what an experience!
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
The Park Hotel Kenmare was my best purchase ever. Although not cheap when I bought it, it has afforded me a wonderful lifestyle and the opportunity to see the world while on business travel.
Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?
I can remember something about Jonesboro near Newry when I was a teenager, but cannot remember if I bought anything. I think the butter was cheap!
Do you haggle over prices?
Yes, always. Most people tend to just ask the price and accept it, but if you are buying 200 pillows – as I did last week – it required a call around to a few suppliers to get a good price.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
Absolutely. Just like everyone I have cut down on personal spending and seek out good value. I notice that the Celtic Tiger prices are gone – a tree surgeon I had at the hotel recently was way less than a few years back.
Do you invest in shares?
Never since Eircom a few years ago.
Cash or card?
Both, actually. I usually have cash in my pocket as, often, I need to get something fast for a guest and need cash on the spot.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
I was recently in Killarney and bought 10x4 item zappers for TV/DVDs at a fraction of the cost of last years’. We lose about 10 to 15 zappers a year.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
No. As I am working all the time I never encounter a personal “cash flow” issue. Weeks could go by and all the cash I need is for the church on Sunday – all payments are direct debit in my account.
Have you ever lost money?
Yes, millions in the recent property drop.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
I never gamble.
Is money important to you?
Yes, since I was a child and ran a babysitting service for commission, with 42 employees when I was 14.
How much money do you have on you now?
Exactly €280 and $100 bill, which I exchanged for a guest recently. I always have my cash, faces up, in a money clip in my pocket.
In conversation with
TONY CLAYTON LEE
