Time to Talk with George Strong
THIS week the 'MAIL' caught up with 'peace-maker' George Strong.
George, 70, is a retired director of conciliation and arbitration services within the Labour Relations Agency, he is still called on to to arbitrate in settling employment issues.
Since his retirement George was secretary of Belmont Bowling Club and was president of Northern Ireland Private Greens Bowling League and a council member of the Irish Bowling Association, he plays for the senior team at Lurgan Bowling Club.
George is no stranger to Lurgan, in the 1970s he helped with recruitment, training, retention, labour productivity and industrial relations for new companies throughout the development of Craigavon.
Later as a client executive with the industrial development board he worked to build and attract new companies to the area.
Over the past year George has had to care for his wife, Mary, who suffered a heart attack and was confined to hospital for almost six months.
He said: "She contracted a number of infections including MRSA and I cannot speak highly enough of the care and attention given to Mary over these testing times.
"I would like to thank consultant cardiologist, Dr Menown and his team at Craigavon Area Hospital and the aftercare provided by Banbridge Health and Social Services Trust and her GP."
George moved to the Banbridge Road two years ago to be near his two daughters, Gillian in Moira and Allyson from Waringstown as well as son-in-law Jonny and three grandchildren Lucy, Callum and Zara.
He and wife Mary are members of Lurgan Presbyterian Church.
If you could trade places with anyone else for the day who would it be and why?
Senator George Mitchell. I have worked all my life in dispute resolution and his work in the peace process in building confidence among parties and communities is to be commended by all. The peace process has really helped to develop society as a whole in Northern Ireland. It would be great to have been alongside him at the beginning of the peace process and glean his knowledge, skills and experience.
Describe your perfect day...
it would centre around my family and friends. I celebrated my birthday with my family and friends on the north coast, the weather was superb - it will be something special to remember.
If you could change your job what would you do instead?
Due to my wife's illness I have had to develop domestic skills as a carer, I have enjoyed working life and would not swap that role.
Party animal or slouch potato?
More of a slouch potato these days but in my younger days I enjoyed the great Irish showbands. Spanish Eyes and Huckle Back still bring me to my feet.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
After my wife’s illness and recovery, especially with the prayers of Reverend David Henry, I have come to appreciate one day at a time.
Who are what has had the biggest influence in your life?
My late mother and father made many sacrifices to give me the opportunity of a first class education, with their guidance they gave me the confidence to fully express myself and opinions.
If you were stranded on a desert Island what three things would you like to have with you?
My Bible for inspiration and encouragement, a photo album of family and a diary and pen to document life on the island.
Would you describe yourself as competitive?
Yes. I have been a keen sportsman all my life but I don’t feel too aggrieved if I lose provided I have done my best.
Are you environmentally friendly?
I strive to do my best by minimising the use of plastic bags and putting the right things into the right bins.
Could you bear to be parted from your mobile for a week?
The absence of it would not worry me too much.
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Weather for Lurgan
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: South east
