On pay levels in the hotel sector: There is a lot more to it than just increasing pay, we have to look at tax rates for the low paid for instance.

On the minimum wage: Most people in the hotel industry have no problem with it, as they are paying over those levels already.

On what CERT has to do: Our main aim is to justify our funding.

On a new recruitment campaign at school level: The idea is that when pupils see and talk to people who have made a career in hotels work for them, it will leave an impression.

On life as a hotelier: It is one of those jobs where you really get a chance to integrate with people.

On the uncertainties involved: Even when you are doing well, you can still be only one step away from heartbreak.

On non-nationals working in the tourism sector: They are co-citizens of ours in Europe and have a right not to be exploited.