Harry Comber: Director of the National Cancer Registry.
Personal and family: Born in Wexford in 1949, but has spent most of his life in or around Cork. Two children, Rory and Anne.
What figure from the world of health/ medicine do you most admire?
Michael Boland, for the way he has transformed Irish general practice and Irish GPs' view of themselves, through the ICGP and CME network.
What alternative career might you have chosen?
I'm on my third career at present. I have been a biochemist and a GP. I thought of studying law at one stage, but I think I have had enough variety.
If you were appointed Minister for Health, what would be your first priority?
I would take a very long holiday. After that I would find a way of making GPs central, rather than peripheral, to decision-making in the health services.
Do you have a phobia/what is your greatest fear?
I am terrified of heights and hate spider crabs.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Yes, but nothing major. I think I'm OK as a patient but you would have to ask my GP. I ask a lot of questions - it's a matter of opinion if that makes me a good patient, but he doesn't seem to mind.
What three books would you bring to a desert island?
In Search of Lost Time (Proust), Essays (Montaigne), The Lord of the Rings (Tolkein).
Have you a fail-safe method of dealing with stress?
Yes. Alternatively, I go for a long walk on Garryvoe beach.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
I watch and listen too rarely to have a favourite.
If you did not live in Ireland, where would you choose to spend the rest of your life?
Somewhere near Perpignan, France.
Summarise yourself in 12 words (or fewer?)
Logical, lazy, inquisitive, disorganised, soft, romantic, stubborn, indecisive, cheerful.
Do you use alternative medicine/therapies?
Never.
Who or what makes you laugh?
A good joke with a good friend.
(In interview with Dr Muiris Houston)