Joe McDonagh Occupation: Registered psychologist and lecturer. President of the Psychological Society of Ireland, the professional body for psychologists in Ireland.
Personal/Family: Single and lives in Dublin.
What figure from the world of health/medicine do you most admire?
Two exceptional psychologists would be Jo Gleeson-Aspell and Jane Fry whose honesty and dedication is a model for all in the profession.
What other career might you have chosen? Veterinary surgeon.
If you were appointed Minister for Health, what would be your first priority?
I'd make sure that the Government continued to address the large number of unfilled psychologist posts in Ireland (40 per cent). I'd also press ahead with the plans to reform the health service - we all have to compromise a bit if we want a world-class health service.
Do you have a phobia/what is your greatest fear?
Medical needles.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
No, I've never had to stay in a hospital.
What three books would you bring to a desert island?
The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera; The Lord God made them all by James Herriot; and Emma by Jane Austen.
Have you a fail-safe method of dealing with stress?
Yoga, listening to music or playing football.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
West Wing and Quote unquote on Radio 4.
If you did not live in Ireland, where would you choose to spend the rest of your life?
In France, probably in Brittany.
Summarise yourself in 12 words?
Enthusiastic, organised, analytical, innovative, persistent, direct, considerate, loyal, passionate, lover of humour.
Do you use alternative medicines/therapies?
I use yoga a fair bit, and am lucky to have an excellent teacher.
Who or what makes you laugh?
The Fast Show, The Simpsons, D'Unbelievables, Steve Coogan.