The two main parties in the outgoing Irish government have again ruled out Sinn Fein as a potential coalition partner in the next government. The leaders of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Sinn Féin were taking part in a TV debate just days before the general election.

Fianna Fail’s refusal to contemplate Sinn Fein as a coalition partner is policy-based and not personal, Micheal Martin has insisted. Mr Martin again made clear he would not engage with Sinn Fein in relation to government formation post-election.

Sources from within Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin say their parties are now eyeing extra seats following a slump in support for Fine Gael in the latest Irish Times/IPSOS B&A poll.

Sinn Féin's manifesto proposals could cause serious damage to the Irish economy, the Finance Minister has claimed.

Sinn Féin says it's "very well prepared" for the general election, as it hopes to lead a government without Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael.

Fianna Fáil’s refusal to contemplate Sinn Féin as a coalition partner is policy-based and not personal, Micheal Martin has insisted. Mr Martin again made clear he would not engage with Sinn Féin in relation to government formation post-election.