Parties campaign on health and housing

Health, housing and education will dominate the general election campaign today.

Fianna Fáil aims to promote awareness of its health policies while Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will be canvassing in Counties Louth and Monaghan.

Fine Gael will launch proposals for GP visits for all children under five years old.

Party leader Enda Kenny will carry out constituency tours in Kerry North & South and Cork North West.

Labour Party leader Pat Rabbitte will launch its fairer housing policy “Opening Doors” and re-emphasise its “Begin to Buy” scheme to help people get a foot on the property ladder.

The Greens will publish a position paper on older people while Trevor Sargent will canvass in Dublin North and Dublin South Central.

Sinn Féin will unveil proposals on the education system, including reform in post-primary schools, support for multi-denominational and special needs education, and educational equality for Traveller children.

The Progressive Democrats party will be launching its “Access All Stations” initiative to provide integrated transport for commuters.

Party leader Tánaiste Michael McDowell will attend the Battle of the Boyne joint visit between the Taoiseach and First Minister Ian Paisley.

Later he will be canvassing in Meath East.