SIMON COVENEY, Fine Gael frontbench spokesman for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources
Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?
In terms of exercise, yes, but my diet probably wouldn’t be that healthy. I’m on the move so much I often eat the wrong foods at the wrong time. McDonalds even features the odd time.
How often do you exercise?
My week is split between Dublin and Cork. In Dublin, I rarely exercise, but in Cork I go for a run or a cycle regularly. There’s a fantastic walk and cycleway between Carrigaline where I live and Crosshaven. I’ll try to cycle it early so that walkers aren’t annoyed by someone flying past them. I wear some lycra too so that’s another reason to do it when no one is around!
Do you get your five a day?
Unfortunately not. My diet is something I’ve always been careless about. I rely too much on convenience foods, I rush meals and I eat in the car too. I’m the same weight as I was at 19, but that’s down to a fast metabolism. The only time I eat well is at home, having a family dinner. My wife is quite a healthy eater and she’s trying to instil that in me.
Do you worry?
I’m not a worrier, thank God. If I make a mistake I could have avoided, I’ll get annoyed with myself, but that happens to everyone, I suppose. I don’t worry about things I can’t control. That’s not to say that my job isn’t stressful at times.
What do you do to relax?
Watching or playing sport is something I love. At the weekend, I take my daughter and my dogs for a walk on the beach. It’s a great way to tire out a 15-month-old child. I grew up around boats, and my wife and I both love the water and the beach to unwind.
What’s your unhealthiest habit?
Eating very late at night. In Dublin, I may not leave the Dáil until 11pm.
When I’m in Cork, there will be constituency meetings or functions to go to, so I could be eating as late as 11pm. Going to bed on a full stomach is not a good idea.
In conversation with JOANNE HUNT
