Robin Webster, Chief executive of Age Action Ireland in conversation with Sylvia Thompson
Personal/family: Still growing. Six children and eight grandchildren.
What figure from the world of medicine or health do you most admire? Peter Townsend. He's a godfather of gerontology.
What other career might you have chosen? Planning or law.
If you could grant three wishes for the health service, what would they be? I would introduce legislation to establish the right of all citizens, including older people, to comprehensive, high-quality public health services and corresponding duties on the HSE to provide them. I would establish an independent and powerful inspectorate for all health services and ensure greater focus and resources on community and home services.
What is your greatest fear? Dementia.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one? I have been too good, but I'm getting worse by challenging doctors, which is good for them.
When or where are you happiest? Cooking for people I love and/or who appreciate good food.
How do you cope with stress? Listening to music (baroque or Bach) with very good whiskey or red wine; swimming or cycling; and prayer.
What is the trait you most admire in yourself? Tolerance.
What is the trait you most dislike in yourself? Spending far too much time at work.
Do you use alternative or complementary medicine or therapies? No. Not yet.
Who or what makes you laugh? Dublin wit and repartee.
What is your motto? My motto is from my father: "If people don't like me, it's their fault."
What is your favourite TV or radio programme? Channel 4 News.
What books would you bring to a desert island? As many books as possible by Eric Hobsbawm, Noam Chomsky, Edward Said and John McGahern. Also, guides to music and wine, and Nigel Slater's first cookery book for a desert island.