ON THE COUCH:Niall McLoughlin is chief executive of the Irish Osteoporosis Society
Family/personal:
Two children, Jamie (5) and Evie (3).
Which living person do you most admire and why?
I admire anyone who is battling a disease, such as osteoporosis, and is getting on with his or her life with determination, courage and good humour. I also have great admiration for Prof Moira O’Brien who founded the Irish Osteoporosis Society 13 years ago.
What do you regard as the top three problems facing Ireland’s health system?
The establishment of a successful health technology assessment policy, which avoids the mistakes made in the UK. The need to generate a greater awareness for osteoporosis, a silent disease which affects one in two women and one in five men over 50, but is preventable and treatable in the majority of cases. Finally, to encourage people who may be at risk of osteoporosis to ask their GP about getting a DEXA scan.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Bringing the kids out for dinner after work instead of learning how to cook properly.
What is your most unhealthy habit?
The same as above.
How do you relax?
Reading, going to the gym, watching rugby, and walking in Connemara when I get a chance.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
My close friends and family. If the table was big enough I might also include Barack Obama, David Attenborough, Tina Fey and Kris Kristofferson.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Reading the newspaper over a pint in Veldon’s in Letterfrack having just climbed the Diamond Mountain in Connemara.
What trait do you most value in your friends?
I am blessed with a close bunch of friends who are loyal, supportive and share a great sense of humour.
What talent would you most like to have?
I play the guitar. I would like to play it well.
Do you use alternative/ complementary medicines or therapies?
No, but apparently my auntie’s therapeutic foot massages are fantastic so I must give that a go.
What is your earliest memory?
Wandering off from my family and getting lost in the sand dunes while on holiday in West Cork when I was three.
What is your most treasured possession?
Time spent with my children.
What other career might you have chosen?
I have always enjoyed writing so possibly journalism.
What books or films have inspired you?
A particular favourite would be East of Edenby John Steinbeck. I recently read Memoirby John McGahern, which was very good. Films that have inspired me include Cinema Paradiso, Goodfellasand Into the Wild.
- In conversation with Fiona Tyrrell