New Lodge man Joe Doherty has worked in Coiste na n-Iarchimi, the republican ex-prisoners network in Ireland, for almost two years. He is best known for his long fight against extradition from the US after his escape from Crumlin Road Gaol in 1981. Since his release 10 years ago he has worked with community groups including the Ashton Centre and young people in anti-sectarian campaigns

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

I was born in the Short Strand but brought up in the New Lodge

Where did you go to school?

Star of the Sea and St Patrick’s College Bearnageeha

What is your earliest memory?

Being on a 1950s jaunting car from Short Strand across the Albert Bridge to Cromac square and back for a half penny

What did you want to be when you were a child?

Work at the Dock with my da or play for Chelsea

What is the the worst job you have ever had?

At 14 in a bag store fighting off big rats

Who is your most inspiring person?

Bobby Sands influenced me to pick up guitar in early 1970s in Long Kesh camp. He also inspired millions of people across the world

What is your favourite book, film, and band?

My favourite book is Leon Uris’ Trinity, band would be The Beatles and film is Marlon Brando’s On The Waterfront

Who would play you in a film of your life?

A very young Marlon Brando but I guess I’ll settle for the much older and heavier Brando

Do you have a favorite joke or quote?

Everyone has their part to play: Bobby Sands Joke: Did you hear about the new book on constipation? It hasn’t come out yet

What is your most treasured possession?

My family, my friends and my politics

What is your greatest fear?

A reoccurrence of armed conflict; our people don’t want or need it

What are you very good at/very bad at?

Good at being humble to people but not listening to good advice

What are you most proud of?

Being a socialist and republican

What place would you like to visit before you die?

Vietnam, to pay homage to a courageous and victorious people

What is the last text message you received?

Sinn Fein canvas 2nite 6.30. Don’t be late, Joe!

If you were a politician what is the first thing you would do?

No perks and crush social injustice

If you won the lottery what would you spend it on?

My family, friends and worthy causes such as PIPS and Cancer Lifeline

Who would be your five guest for the perfect dinner party?

Che Guevara, Christy Moore, Bobby Sands, Mairead Farrell and Nelson Mandela. There would be such great yarns and song

How do you want to be remembered? 

A committed republican and socialist

What do you most like about North Belfast?

A people unbroken by conflict