About myself
I love my family. I’ve been married for 45 years. I have three children, two boys and a girl. They already have their own families, and they gave me seven grandchildren. My family lives in the Northern Ireland.
I literally live my work. I am leading the EU project "Improving Criminal Justice in Kazakhstan". Here we cooperate with the Ministry of Justice, the Supreme Court, Chief Justice. In Northern Ireland I headed a prison for 31 years. Having completed my career in the field of prison business, I worked in the UN in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations.
Also, I worked in Iraq, where rebuilt a correctional system and worked on the EU's Rule of Power program, which taught judges, police officers and all high-ranking personalities. I worked with the Ministry of Justice in Port-au-Prince, where I helped restore the correctional system, rewrite the law, strategic plans guide and the security system with the assistance of the United Nations.
I traveled to different countries, and I did not have the opportunity to find a hobby. I like gardening. I like the opportunity to grow something up. I’m keen on growing flowers and strawberries.
My main life principle is to respect human rights. It is important to be sure that people are protected and respected, and all are treated with dignity. In short, I want to see the world without discrimination.
About Astana
In October 2015 I arrived in Astana. Firstly I didn’t know anything about your country. Later I found out that it’s in Central Asia.
I was surprised by the beauty of the city, people, cleanliness around. In winter I was not as inspired as at the beginning, because I’d never lived in places with a cold climate for so long. Winter lasted for five months, snow and frost was all around.
I like to walk around the city, shopping centers, explore new places where I’ve not been. I like different pieces of architecture, their design. Since in 2017 there will be an Expo, the appearance is very important for the city.
I planned to stay in Kazakhstan for three years, but, unfortunately, I will stay here only for a year, for family reasons, since my spouse is living alone. I think I spent enough time here, it's time to return home.
I’m planning to come here with my wife and children to see Expo next year. 98 countries will take part in the exhibition, and I think it will be interesting. For 25 years of your independence you have achieved a lot, the exhibition will also be an achievement. I know your President and his zeal to improve all areas, improve the standard of living. I like his foresight.
One of the favorite places in Astana is "Astana Opera". This place brings a big contribution to the development and recreation of citizens.
Astana has great prospects, there are beautiful restaurants, parks, circus and theaters. I visited the celebration of the Victory held on May, 9 in Astana Opera. I went to the concert, even though it was in Russian. I enjoyed it much.
Caring people and their life inspiration
I wake up in the morning, go to work and know that I have a lot of work. That is the thing that inspires me. I like to be a part of daily changes.
The inspiration is to be a part of an international community like the EU that helps Kazakhstan to occupy a strong position in the world arena. I like to see that people are treated with respect. I’m inspired by step by step changing.
I like people who change the history, they inspire me. Unfortunately, I do not have time to read much now. In general, I like reading biographies, presidents’ and different leaders’ especially. I’m always inspired by changers and their contribution into the world development. For example: Abraham Lincoln, George Washington.
Current state of spirit
I’m thinking about the improvements needed, things and strategies that have already been accomplished.
My mind is open, but I understand that it is necessary to remain realistic, as there are situations that will not depend on me.
