We've seen a lot of dirty politics in Ireland. We know from the French, their wonderfully neurotic presidents, that our hands are sort of tied. The Italians - I don't know where it stops. No nation can claim "We are an uncorrupt nation, therefore we will tell you what the morals of democracy are." Because it's going on everywhere.

I quite enjoy more teamwork and offering something up into the mix.

If all you've got to do is a couple of lines, dear Jesus, don't let them down. Other people are taking responsibility.

I'm looking forward to locking swords with Douglas Henshall and working against the stunning backdrop of Shetland. I came to Scotland a lot in the '70s and '80s in various theatre productions and of course to film Hallam Foe but this is the furthest I've ever been.

I don't use the word 'artists' lightly.

I float from one project to another project, so you miss people and you don't see them for years.

Casting is very, very important.