. . .what happened yesterday
Fianna Fáil
The party launched another attack on the Opposition parties. Micheál Martin claimed Fine Gael were promising something for "everyone in the audience". "They are swanking around the place like they are in the government. Some are already divvying up the spoils amongst themselves. I would like to remind them there are still nine days to go to this election"
Fine Gael
Grant aid for young farmers and new entrants in the sector would be increased by €2500 under proposals in Fine Gael's Agriculture manifesto launched yesterday .
Speaking in Athleague, Co Roscommon, Agriculture and Food spokesman Denis Naughten said the livelihoods of beef and sheep farmers were under particular threat with beef finishers facing losses of up to €200 per head.
"Fine Gael is committed to prioritising the development of our food industry within the wider Irish economy, to allowing it to become a truly global competitor and to securing the industry's long-term future."
Labour
Canvassing in South Tipperary, Pat Rabbitte met the man believed to be the country's oldest member of the Labour Party, Michael Scanlon (99) of Bansha, who canvasses in his wheelchair. Mr Rabbitte also visited the Elm Park estate in Clonmel where a woman died in a house fire following a recent spate of suspected arson attacks. He said Labour was committed to allocating a share of the National Development plan to rebuild communities in estates like Elm Park and to "put in the facilities which should have gone in when the houses were built".
Progressive Democrats
The party launched its education policy which promises "modern and well-staffed schools". Deputy Leader Liz O'Donnell said the party's proposals would help improve economic performance. "We will apply our trademark ambition and determination to the sphere of education - from primary to fourth level - to ensure Ireland maintains its proud record in educational achievement."
Green Party
Party leader Trevor Sargent said the key elements in any coalition deal the party agreed would include tackling climate change, cleaning up politics and providing "top-class" education for all children. He said there would be no deal with Fine Gael if Enda Kenny only offered "Fianna Fáil-lite" as an alternative. "The people are telling us that they don't want a Fianna Fáil government back. This is clear from what we're hearing at the doors and it is clear from recent polls."
Sinn Féin
Enterprise spokesman Arthur Morgan said that balanced regional development was a key priority for the party. He said failure to invest in infrastructure and the roll-out of broadband had been an impediment to job creation, particularly in the west of Ireland and Border counties.
What's happens today
Fianna Fáil:Mary Hanafin will hold a briefing on education and class sizes
Fine Gael:Deputy leader Richard Bruton will lead a briefing on the party's approach to ensuring greater Ministerial accountability
Labour:Pat Rabbitte and Liz McManus are hosting a briefing "on the need for better delivery and value for money for taxpayers"
Progressive Democrats:Minister of State Tim O'Malley will publish the party's sports policy online at noon.
Green Party:Trevor Sargent and Patricia McKenna will hold a briefing on education at St Patrick's Teacher Training College, Drumcondra
Sinn Féin:Gerry Adams, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and Mary Lou McDonald will launch the party's general election manifesto