Barry Devlin, Horslips
Are you a saver or a spender?
Spender, big time. A hopeless profligate. And because of that, a bit prone to Micawber syndrome.
Do you shop around for better value?
No. That would involve time. And thought . . . And as a creature of habit the word “around” makes me profoundly uneasy.
What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
Summerfield House. It cost very little when set against the warm winter nights and drowsy summer days it has given me and my family.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
My wedding ring. Plain white gold. To enlarge on the many and varied reasons that have made it so could easily tip this over into the cheesy, so I won’t.
Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?
I once crossed a county border in deepest Arkansas to buy liquor to bring back to our motel during our touring days. Does that count?
Do you haggle over prices?
Too embarrassed. I know I should, but I have a niggling feeling that vendors are entitled to make a living as well. Well, except for Louis Vuitton.
Has the recession changed your spending habits?
I came pre-bust to the recession. So it would be a theoretical answer . . .
Do you invest in shares?
Invest? Shares? Isn’t that an oxymoron? But no, I don’t gamble on the stock market.
Cash or card?
Card. I’m feared and loathed at the East Link toll bridge. No, that’s a joke. I sometimes use cash. But cards are very handy.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
A bar of Bournville. About 15 minutes ago and it still tastes like good value. Mmmmmmm.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Save? Moi? No. I’ve always been an opportunist – Mind you, I’m still waiting for that big opportunity.
Have you ever lost money?
There’s 80 cent down the back of the sofa in the good room. At least . . .
Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?
I do the Grand National. I sometimes get beyond the Canal Turn but mostly, my nags stumble crossing the Melling Road. First time around . . .
Is money important to you?
God yes. How much am I being paid for this? Hundreds, surely . . .
How much money do you have on you now?
€5.37. It’s a good, good day.
Horslips, with the NCH Orchestra, perform at Dublin’s National Concert Hall, August 25th/26th. For further details, see
