Even before debate showtime, leaders were on the attack

Boxers at least wait until the bell rings before launching their first attack. But in the scrap to win election 2016 votes, the political punches were being thrown even before the televised leaders’ debate began.

Less than half an hour before showtime, there was still no sign of one of the four key figures of the night.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin — who could soon be carpooling to Government Buildings — had arrived within minutes of each other just after 8.15pm, while Tánaiste Joan Burton had arrived a full hour earlier, such was the enthusiasm of the first-time leaders’ debate participant.