First televised leaders debate to take place on RTÉ

The first televised leaders debate of the general election campaign takes place on RTÉ television tonight. Ten party leaders will take part in the debate - the highest number ever in any campaign here.

On the campaign trail, Fine Gael will focus on a promise to reduce waiting lists for children with disabilities and special educational needs.

The party is pledging to open five new special schools next year, and to place therapists in schools to help children with additional needs.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald will be campaigning in Dublin today, ahead of tonight's televised leadership debate.

Ms McDonald will visit a school in Donaghmede which is campaigning for a new building. She will also be canvassing.

Separately, Sinn Féin's Finance spokesperson, Pearse Doherty, and the outgoing Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Mairead Farrell, will take part in an event to highlight the party’s plans to end the waste of public money.

The Green Party will be launching a policy on improving work life balance - including holding a citizens’ assembly on moving to a four-day week.

The Social Democrats will launch a disability policy, Labour is focusing on the arts while People Before Profit will be speaking about the plight of renters.

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Labour and Fine Gael launch manifestos as Sinn Féin eyes petrol cost cut

After days of criticising each other, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are turning their fire on Sinn Féin - with both calling on the main opposition party to publish its manifesto.

The Fine Gael leader, Simon Harris, is urging them to do so ahead of tonight’s televised debate.

That debate on Upfront with Katie Hannon will broadcast at 9.35pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. It will involve ten party leaders - the largest ever leaders debate to take place on Irish television.

Additional reporting Tommy Meskill