The first TV and radio debate of the election campaign takes place tonight.

Tonight the leaders of the four main parties will go head to head in the debate hosted by TV3 and Newstalk.

However, before Enda Kenny, Joan Burton, Micheál Martin and Gerry Adams are grilled by Pat Kenny and Colette Fitzpatrick to try and sway voters, the campaigning across the country continues.

Fianna Fáil launches its election manifesto - entitled An Ireland for All - in Dublin.

It is Limerick for Labour as the party launches a housing plan, while Joan Burton campaigns in her constituency.

After Enda Kenny hands in his nomination papers in Castlebar, he heads to Galway to launch Fine Gael's childcare and early years plan.

Sinn Féin's talking services for people with disabilities as Gerry Adams campaigns in the Midlands.

There will also be manifesto launches from the Greens and People Before Profit.

Election candiates in Dublin will be put through their pacings this morning at the Children's Hustings.

Pupils from 5th and 6th class in St Enda's Primary School will quiz politicians on the issues they want the next Government to deal with.