Candidates prepare for TG4 debate

The seven Presidential candidates are to debate "as Gaeilge" on television this evening for a debate on TG4.

The candidates are recording the debate in two languages in Baile na hAbhainn this morning - and subtitles will be added before the debate is screened at 7pm this evening.

Candidates are expected to make their opening and closing statements in Irish, but because most of them are not fluent speakers, they will be allowed answer questions in English too.

Michael D Higgins is expected to have an advantage over his rivals in this debate, as the most competent Irish speaker in the race.