Karen O'Keeffe, Director, health, Edelman public relations.
Personal and family: Married to Barry.
What figure from the world of health/medicine do you most admire?
Prof Carl Djerassi who invented the first contraceptive pill which has had a profound socio-cultural impact for women and their role in society.
What alternative career might you have chosen?
A folk singer/musician.
If you were appointed Minister for Health, what would be your first priority?
As Minister for Health, I would find it difficult to choose just one key priority and would look at reform of medical card system eligibility; continue reform of acute care delivery; and use private resources where appropriate to fund healthcare costs and improve health, for example, screening programmes, health promotion and prevention, and chronic illness schemes.
Do you have a phobia/what is your greatest fear?
Heights, in particular escalators and open stair cases.
Have you ever been a patient and were you a good one?
Most recently I had my wisdom teeth removed and cried with complete fear until the anaesthetic knocked me out. They do say a little medical knowledge can be a dangerous thing so due to my profession, I might possibly be an irritating patient. I asked my GP once if I might have a brain tumour I needed glasses.
Last three books read?
Katie Hannon's Naked Politician; Colin Bateman's Divorcing Jack and Malcolm Gladwell, The Tipping Point.
Have you a fail-safe method of dealing with stress?
Listening to music, walking by the sea or in the park and spending time with family and close friends.
What is your favourite TV or radio programme?
Sunday Supplement on Today FM, lively informed discussion not to mention Sam Smyth's very charming voice which is easy on the ear.
If you did not live in Ireland, where would you choose to spend the rest of your life?
New York where I lived previously.
Summarise yourself in 12 words?
Friendly, analytical, positive, loyal, up-for-a-laugh, sceptical, strong willed, independent, sincere and persuasive.
Do you use alternative medicine/therapies?
I have used acupuncture for mild chronic conditions with some success.
Who or what makes you laugh?
My husband Barry.