John McCormackOccupation: Chief executive officer, Irish Cancer Society
Personal/Family: Married to Maura, who works as a dental nurse. Children Aidan (17), Simon (15) and Orla (12)
What figure from the world of medicine/health do you most admire?
Michéal Martin for his leadership and tenacity in relation to the ban on smoking in the workplace.
What other career might you have chosen?
I trained as an accountant, but I have always had an interest in a career in general management.
If you were appointed Minister for Health, what would be your first priority?
To fast-track the implementation of a national cervical cancer screening programme for women, and to further develop the excellent palliative care services that have developed here over the past number of years.
Do you have a phobia/what is your greatest fear?
Strange dogs.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Yes and no.
What three books would you bring to a desert island?
Inspirational books such as Profile of Power (about JFK) by Richard Reeves, Waders to Success by Gay Hunt and a prayer book.
Have you a fail-safe method of dealing with stress?
A walk, taking in the breeze on an isolated bog road near Ballinakill, Moate, Co Westmeath where my father hails from.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
Nationwide on RTÉ.
If you did not live in Ireland, where would you choose to spend the rest of your life?
New York.
Summarise yourself in 12 words.
Good-humoured, compassionate, friendly, sense of humour, honest, loyal, perseveres, affirms, family man, polite and at times a bit anxious.
Do you use alternative medicine/therapies?
No - never had the need.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Chatting during relaxed family gatherings and listening to Brendan Grace.
(Interview by Dr Muiris Houston)