Party leaders return to campaign trail

Election rivals Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny hit the campaign trail today, expecting their TV debate performances to boost voter support.

Both camps immediately claimed victory and predicted electoral swings in their favour in advance of polling day.

As the campaign enters its final phase, the Taoiseach will be canvassing today in Mitchelstown, Kanturk, Bandon and Cork City.

Opposition leader Mr Kenny will visit the constituencies of Donegal North East, Donegal South West and Sligo/North Leitrim.

Progressive Democrat leader Michael McDowell will discuss proposals on education and regional development while in Wexford while Minister for Health Mary Harney will deliver a speech on the economy in Dublin.

Fianna Fáil ministers will host a news briefing on lower and fairer taxes while Fine Gael frontbench spokesmen will launch pre-school education proposals.

Sinn Féin will launch a manifesto on the Irish language.

Labour is to unveil a policy document on schools while leader Pat Rabbitte will be canvassing in Dublin constituencies.

The Greens will discuss proposals for people with disabilities and leader Trevor Sargent will be campaigning in Co Cork and Kilkenny.