Paul Fahy, Artistic director, Galway Arts Festival
Are you a saver or a spender?
I am both. I am great for splashing out when I can but I am conscious of the rainy day. I have worked in the arts all my life and was self- employed for some of those years, so have always tried to save when I could knowing tougher times were never very far away.
Do you shop around for better value?
It depends on what I am shopping for. If it is an expensive purchase then yes, but for day-to-day things, I don’t really have the time.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
Apart from spending money on somewhere to live, I have spent a lot on my garden, which I love and which is my escape. Sadly, something as trivial but necessary as my car was probably my most expensive purchase.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
The very first painting I bought cost £300 and I absolutely love it.
Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?
No. I have shopped while there but I have never gone on a trip specifically to buy anything across the Border.
Do you haggle over prices?
I am a good haggler when it comes to making deals professionally, but I don’t really haggle personally unless it is a bigger purchase. Or if haggling is part of the culture where you are shopping – which can be good fun.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
I have always been conscious of money. I never went particularly mad on spending sprees during the so called “boom years”, so I didn’t have any huge adjustments to make!
Do you invest in shares?
No.
Cash or card?
Both – and having learned from bad experiences I always clear my credit card.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
I filled my car with petrol earlier today which cost €104 which certainly was not good value.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes. A car and travel.
Have you ever lost money?
No. I have invested in a couple of theatre shows over the years but not significantly, more to support a project than hoping to make money from it. Theatre is the one area I would invest in if I were in a position to do so. I once accidentally put my wallet, which contained a good bit of cash, into a postbox on the street with the mail, but thankfully got it back.
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
No, I never gamble. I have no interest whatsoever in betting of any kind. The only time I ever bet is a rare flutter on a horse if I go racing, but do so just being sociable. But gambling holds no interest – I’m a bit allergic to the whole notion of it.
Is money important to you?
Not overly. It is lovely when you have it and I enjoy being able to splash out when I can, but I am not motivated personally by money.
How much money do you have on you now?
€120.
