Current Car — Fans of the Inbetweeners TV series and movies might be mistaken for thinking Deputy Naughton’s latest job title as Government Chief Whip refers to her ministerial car, alas it doesn’t. The Oranmore native drives her own modest eco-friendly KIA Nero and admits she had very little interest in cars. Hildegarde’s first set of wheels was an Opel Corsa, purchased from her mother, later to be traded for an Opel Astra.
Soundtrack — A Lot of Deputy Naughton’s time is spent on the road travelling to meetings and events. As you might expect News and Current affairs are the main soundtrack while in the car. After the daily newsround, she tunes into Lyric FM. Easy listening and classic show tunes are her favourite, a far cry form the din of the Cabinet Table.
Favourite Journey — Home is where the heart is, they say and for Hildegarde, her favourite journey is on the R338 otherwise known as The Coast Road, Oranmore.
Perfect Passenger — “Any of my family,” Hildegarde responds when asked, pushed a little more and she reveals her ideal passenger. A classically trained soprano, Hildegarde names Celine Dion as her perfect passenger. Impressed by the Canadian’s life story and her unrivaled vocal ability, it would be duets all the way.
Dream Chauffeur — As a busy Minister, Hildegarde is no stranger to being chauffeured. For her, it is means to working more efficently while travelling, so there is no ideal driver adding she ‘alway’s grateful for the drivers who do the job’.
Lotto Win Car — It’s a rare sight to see a politician struggle to find a answer. Asked about her fantasy car and Hildegarde is blank. ‘I’m really not a car person’ she pleads and then states with certainty ‘it would be fully electric’ and ‘safe’ . Words that could easily describe the Government Chief Whip.
