Kathleen McLoughlinis chief executive of the Irish Wheelchair Association.
Family/personal:
I am married to Seamus and have two boys, Gavin and Cormac.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
George Mitchell because of his modesty and his capacity to make change happen in a very quiet way.
What do you regard as the top three problems facing Ireland's health system?
The biggest problem is the underestimation of the time and complexity involved in the reform of such a large system. In addition, the views of people, including experienced staff, are not being listened to. Secondly, the removal of decision-making from a local level has gone too far. Finally, there is a lack of trust and confidence in the system.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Shoes and handbags. They last for a long time, which leads to the problem of not wanting to throw them out.
What is your most unhealthy habit?
I have too many to choose from, but if I had to pick one it would be my unwillingness to do exercise.
What kinds of things do you do to relax?
Playing the piano. I come from a very musical family and I love a good seisiúin. I also play at concerts and festivals with my friend, the composer Josephine Keegan.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Marian Finucane, Olivia O'Leary, Nigel Kennedy and Liam Neeson - they all have a great sense of humour.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Good health and the time to enjoy it.
What trait do you most value in your friends?
Tolerance.
What talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to take great photographs.
Do you use alternative/complementary medicines or therapies?
Not at the moment, but I have promised myself a reflexology session at our holiday centre at Cuisle in Roscommon. It is fully accessible and offers a range of alternative therapies.
What is your earliest memory?
I remember falling off a gate that I was swinging on at the age of three.
What is your most treasured possession?
My father's violin.
What other career might you have chosen?
An engineer. I am fascinated with how things work. I'd love, for example, to have designed something like the new Boyne bridge.
What books or films have inspired you?
I love to read and watch films, but, to be honest, none has inspired me in the same way that people have done - musicians or members of our association.
In conversation with Fiona Tyrrell