Every week we ask a celebrity some tough questions, this week it's Frances Black, who is getting ready for her gig at the Olympia theatre, Dublin, this Wednesday, November 5.

What are you working at right now?
I'm just back from a promotional tour in the U.S.A. and am now starting an Irish tour to promote my new album.

Where is your favourite place in the world — and why?
My favourite place in the world is Rathlin Island,where my father was born. I love it because I get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

What is your favourite tipple and when was the last time you over indulged?
I don't drink any more but from time to time I can over indulge on chocolate and ice cream.

If you were stranded on a desert island who is the one person you would want to have with you?
It would like to be with someone who makes me laugh, someone like Billy Connolly or Robin Williams.

Which actor/actress really floats your boat — and why?
I love Jack Nicholson, he just has this cheekiness about him and he's totally charming.

If you were made Taoiseach tomorrow — what would be the first thing you would do?
There's so many things I would like to do. I don't like injustice — so I would make every effort to ensure that the Colombia Three got fair trial.

Have you ever been in love?
Definitely.

Do you have a party-piece/special talent?
I can sing a song or two.

When was the last time you cried?
I cried last week after visiting my mam who is really ill in hospital at the moment.

Can you tell us about your earliest childhood memory?
My earliest childhood memory is travelling to Rathlin Island with my dad.The excitement was unbelievable.

Have you ever broken someone's heart?
I don't think so.

What's the one TV programme you could not live without?
That would have to be Eastenders.

What's the one luxury in your life that you absolutely, cannot do without?
That's easy — my mobile phone.

Name three things you love about Ireland and three things you hate?
I really love the people, the hurling matches and the music. I hate racism, homelessness and traffic jams.

What's your favourite TV programme?
As I said earlier, that would have to be Eastenders.

What's the first thing you'd do if you won the Lotto?
I would head off to The Maldives to think about what I would do with the winnings.