ME MY MONEY: LEO VARADKAR Fine Gael TD and his party's enterprise spokesman
1. Are you a saver or a spender?
Definitely a spender. I try to put money away every month in my savings account but I always end up dipping into it to pay for holidays, management fees, car insurance, and so on.
2. Do you shop around for better value?
It’s hard when you are busy. I tried Aldi once but the fruit went off in two or three days. I shop in Spar for convenience, Dunnes for the basics and M&S for the fancy food.
3. What has been your most extravagant purchase ever and how much did it cost?
My best Italian business suit. It was expensive but I’ve worn it about twice a week for two years now.
4. What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
Anything on eBay. I got a new wheel for my Blackberry for €7 which saved me having to fork out for a whole new one. Got new earphones for my iPod too, for a song. Otherwise, membership of Westpoint Gym in Blanchardstown. It costs €225 for the year and I use it about twice a week. I probably spend more on Lucozade Sport.
5. Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?
Never for that reason but when I was at the SDLP conference last week, I had a look around. It isn’t all that much cheaper but customer service is a lot better. I even got a free glass of beer in one shop in Victoria Square.
6. Do you haggle over prices?
No. I am really bad at that. If it is stuff for the office I let my PA, Lisa, do the talking. She can always get about 20 per cent off.
7. Has the recession changed your spending habits?
Yes. Of course. I eat out a lot less, take cheaper holidays and managed to reduce my outgoings by cutting back on Sky Sports, electricity, mortgage protection and a few things like that. I am doing okay, though.
8. Do you invest in shares?
I’m kind of a bottom feeder. I bought shares in the banks, Independent News, McInerney’s and Aer Lingus when they were on the floor. I sold half when they doubled in value with the exception of Aer Lingus which hasn’t yet. But it is small money, just a few hundred euros. It forces me to watch the market though which is important in my job.
9. Cash or card?
Both. I’ve locked my credit cards away but I use Laser a lot.
10. How much money do you have on you now?
€80.70
In conversation with Fiona McCann
