Leaders' Debate: Housing and crime dominate as leaders clash on policies and coalition options

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has fought off criticisms of her party and its republican past, arguing that the Ard Chomhairle, which decides policy, is “no different to the GAA”.

Housing and crime dominated the first half of tonight's RTÉ election TV debate with leaders also clashing on policies, coalition options and openly trading blows.

While Taoiseach Leo Varadkar came under attack with claims his party had failed to fix the housing crisis, there was also criticism of Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin for supporting the government.