ON THE COUCH: Neil Johnson is chief execcutive of Croi, the west of Ireland Cardiology Foundation.
Family/personal:married to Riona with three children - Sarah, Emma and Daniel.
Which living person do you most admire and why?Nelson Mandela, because he has demonstrated the courage of his convictions.
What do you regard as the top three problems facing Ireland's health system?The pandemic of diabetes and obesity, particularly among young people, and the impact that it will have in so many areas, including cardio-vascular disease. The general lack of investment in the prevention of cardio-vascular disease.
Finally, the fact that successive governments have failed to adequately plan and provide for the future healthcare needs of the population, particularly our ageing population.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?John Bowman, whom I recently met and was hugely impressed by. He is very entertaining and likely to stimulate lively debate and discussion.
What is you idea of perfect happiness?A long holiday in the south of France with my wife and children. I have only ever managed to do short holidays there.
What is your greatest extravagance?Shrubs and trees from garden centres. The most expensive shrub I have ever purchased was €200.
What is your most unhealthy habit?Not knowing when to stop eating chocolate biscuits once the packet is opened.
How do you relax?Gardening or being in a garden.
What trait do you most value in your friends?Honesty and loyalty.
What talent would you most like to have?I'd love to be able to sing and to have an entertaining party piece when called upon.
Do you use alternative/ complementary medicines or therapies?I have recently discovered yoga as a great way to stretch and relax.
What is your earliest memory?I have a very early memory of helping my grandfather deliver milk early in the morning in Rathkeel, Co Limerick.
What is your most treasured possession?Family keepsakes, such as photos and letters handed down over the years. Some of them are over 150 years old.
What other career might you have chosen?
Veterinary medicine. My dad was a vet and if I had got the points it is something I would have seriously considered.
In conversation with Fiona Tyrrell