ON THE COUCH:Dr Tracey Cooper, chief executive of the Health Information and Quality Authority
Family/personal:
Single, living in a small village north of Bandon with a couple of cats.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
Nelson Mandela. I admire his persistence, drive and passion to do what he is committed to.
What do you regard as the top three problems facing Ireland's health system?
I'd call them more challenges than problems.
They are the ability to change, the need to strengthen management and accountability, and develop a more open culture with patients.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Perfume.
I must have about 12 different types.
What is your most unhealthy habit?
Getting up too early in the morning.
How do you relax?
Jogging, listening to music, being with friends.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
I am Welsh, so it would have to be the poet Dylan Thomas.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A sunny day in the middle of the country with family and friends at a barbecue.
What trait do you most value in your friends?
Honesty.
What talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to compose music.
Do you use alternative/ complementary medicines or therapies?
No.
What is your earliest memory?
My older brother and sister putting empty sweet packets in my pocket.
What is your most treasured possession?
My Harley-Davidson bike.
What other career might you have chosen?
A vet.
What books or films do you believe have inspired you?
Books and films don't really inspire me, but I find inspiration in places.
Two places that have a little home in my heart are Milton's Seat, a little hill in Worcestershire, and Mt Fuji in Japan.
In conversation with Fiona Tyrrell