Parties enter last lap of canvassing

Political parties will allow no let-up in canvassing today as they enter the final weekend of the general election campaign.

As shockwaves from the TV debate between Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny continue, candidates will be hoping to muster every last vote before polling day on Thursday.

The Taoiseach will be canvassing in Clonmel and Waterford city before returning to his Dublin base via New Ross and Wicklow town.

His Fianna Fail party will be highlighting its tax and pension policies in Dublin.

Fine Gael leader Mr Kenny will be in his native Co Mayo where he will emphasise recycling initiatives during visits to Ballina, Westport and his home town, Castlebar.

Progressive Democrats leader Michael McDowell will be canvassing in his Dublin South East base.

Labour will launch proposals on youth activities while leader Pat Rabbitte will be campaigning in the western constituencies of Sligo/North Leitrim, Galway East and Galway West.

Greens leader Trevor Sargent is due to campaign in his Dublin North constituency.

Meanwhile the Sinn Féin party will set out proposals on the environment and heritage.