‘I don’t necessarily believe that a cheaper price equates to savings’

Siobhán Finn is chief executive of the Community Enterprise Association Ireland, which provides representation, training, mentoring and guidance for the community enterprise sector and the wider enterprise hub network across Ireland. She has more than 20 years of wide-ranging expertise across the corporate, public and not-for-profit sectors.

Are you a saver or a spender?

I’d like to think I’m a sensible spender, although I have been known to make an impulse purchase or two – or more – from time to time.

Do you shop around for better value?

Yes, mostly, but I don’t necessarily believe that a cheaper price equates to savings. I tend to put a price on my time and measure the returns against that. I would like to shop around more but on occasion, it’s a balance of time versus return.

What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?

That is a tough one. Possibly concert tickets which, in hindsight, I paid way too much for. We still had lots of fun, though.

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What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

I moved house in the summer of 2023. Earlier that year, even before I had found our new house, I spotted a large, solid pine dresser on DoneDeal. I paid €250, which was such good value, and had it upcycled in a statement colour for my kitchen. I absolutely love it.

How did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?

I was never an online shopper before Covid but now my shopping habits have completely changed. I tend to opt for online first when I can but I’ve also become very mindful of shopping locally, especially for gifts. About a month ago, I went to the local Christmas market and was stunned at the beautiful gifts I picked up for very reasonable prices.

Do you haggle over prices?

No, I’m useless at asking for discounts. I have family members who do it all the time, but that’s not for me. Maybe that’s one of my 2024 resolutions.

How did the Covid-19 crisis change your spending habits?

I think that, now more than ever, I consciously look for locally-made or Irish-made gift options where possible. Also, when I do my weekly grocery shop, I try to choose Irish produce when available.

Do you invest in shares?

No, not yet but maybe it’s something I will do in the future.

Cash or card?

Card all the time.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

I bought a new television at a 50 per cent discount during Black Friday sales in December. It was great value for money but as it’s the first Smart TV I’ve owned, it might take me months to figure it out.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

Yes, my first house which cost me IR£75,000 in 1997.

Have you ever lost money?

Yes, once, when I was 17 years old. I left my wallet behind in a changing room. I think it had about IR£15 in it – that was a lot of money back then. I got such a lecture from my mother that it never happened again.

Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?

I would say I take chances but not with money. I am a calculated risk-taker and have a few mantras that I hold on to, one of which is “never let fear hold you back”.

Is money important to you?

If the question pertains to financial security, then yes, it is. I have met individuals who believe money is, as some say, “their god”, but that is definitely not me. I work hard and put in long hours so I can I enjoy being in a position to be able to spend some of my salary for fun experiences and memories for my daughter and me.

How much money do you have on you now?

Nothing. I rarely carry cash any more.

In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea

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