1. What made you want to become a rep?
John McKenzie and Gus Sproul cornered me! Jokes aside, I was at a local branch meeting and raised a few issues that we were on my mind relating to H&S within the station. A lot of things were happening that should have been picked up on. We did not have an H&S rep on station for some time and so I took on the role. I did not realise at the time where that would lead me, but I then went on to carry out an area H&S role before moving to the Region 1 post.
2. What is your proudest moment as a rep?
I was part of a group of FBU reps from across the country who, along with comrades from across Europe, went to Brussels to lobby the European parliament. Along with Prof Anna Stec, we spoke to MEPs directly about the research carried out. This led to the FBU’s DECON campaign. DECON continues and it’s great to see reps helping to raise awareness and firefighters fully getting involved.
3. Who are your ultimate heroes?
My parents are my heroes. I have been very fortunate in my upbringing and that’s testament to them and the rest of my family. I try to pass on to my two boys what I have learned from my parents.
4. Describe yourself in three words
Honest, loyal, caring.
5. What was the last conversation you had that made you think differently about something?
I think I have these conversations regularly within the role I carry out. Often I will find myself going into something with a strong opinion but thinking differently after hearing other points of view or getting a bit more context.
6. Which TV show could you not live without? (What’s your favourite band or musician?)
I would not say I have any particular show, but I love getting into a good series that I find myself glued to. I watch football and rugby also. Music-wise I have a very broad taste, I guess if I had to choose it would be a rock band.
7. If you weren’t a firefighter, what would you be?
That’s a hard one, but probably working for myself.
8. If you could travel back or forward in time, where and when would you travel to and why?
I think I would like to go back and meet previous generations of my family. It would be amazing to see where we all came from.
