Q: What were you doing when you were my age?
A: I was studying International Relations at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Q: How did you get to where you are today?
A: I took advantage of opportunities whenever they presented themselves, but more than anything, I think I was just lucky to be in the right places at the right times.
Q: What do you value most in life?
A: I value time with my wife and daughter more than anything else in life.
Q: Who, if anyone, inspires you?
A: I’ve always been inspired by international aid workers; those who have given up the comforts of life to help those who are in need. I think that type of personal sacrifice is truly remarkable.
Q: What advice would you give to a young university graduate from Northern Ireland/Ireland?
A: During my frequent interactions with university students from Northern Ireland, I learned that I’m in no position to be offering advice to them, as most are much brighter than I. I only hope they’ll consider hiring me one day.
Q: How do you view the relationship between Northern Ireland and the United States?
A: I view the relationship between the US and Northern Ireland to be in a moment of great change. Gone are the days when the US followed the ins and outs of the peace process. In its place, is developing a more mature relationship based on mutual economic and cultural benefit for both the US and NI. I think it is an extremely positive relationship that is sustainable over the long-term.
Q: What are your hopes for the next White House Administration?
A: Given my role with the NI Government, I must remain neutral with regard to my desires for the next occupant of the White House. I can, however, say that I hope the new president immediately tackles the most pressing issues that the average American family struggles with every day. How will I afford to keep a roof over my head? Will I be able to put food on the table? If I get sick, is there a system in place to treat me? While issues of war and peace are critical, it is the bread and butter issues that our 44th president must address straight away.
Q: From Disney to the WWE, the U.S. has successfully exported its culture to Northern Ireland. What, if anything, do you think is Northern Ireland’s greatest asset that could be better promoted in the U.S.?
A: I always marvel at the public health and welfare services available to those in need in Northern Ireland. From medical treatment to housing, pensions to education, Northern Ireland does a far better job looking after its citizens than the United States; particularly those at risk.
Q: How do you see the future for Northern Ireland?
A: I’m very optimistic about the future of Northern Ireland. A stable government along with a highly talented workforce provide the key elements of a successful economy. I’m a true believer that if you put people to work, they are less likely to protest in the streets. Northern Ireland has tremendous potential, and I look forward to seeing it exceed it.
Q: What impact, if any, has David Beckham made on the popularity of Football in the U.S.? Could David Healy do a better job?
A: While David Beckham has certainly sold some additional tickets for LA Galaxy games, I don’t think he has had much of an impact on the popularity of the sport in the US. Americans are avid sports fans, but it would be difficult for any sport to make headway in a country dominated by American football, basketball, baseball and NASCAR. Even hockey, which has a long tradition in the States, is struggling to survive. Sadly, David Healy would not have any more luck than Mr. Beckham.
