Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch spotted putting up his election posters

One person who isn't involved in tonight's debate is Independent candidate Gerry ‘The Monk’ Hutch, who was spotted giving a thumbs up as he erected his own election posters around Dublin city this week.

Our picture shows a beaming Hutch (61) giving a thumbs up for the camera as he places his election poster right above one for Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald.

It is understood Hutch was out and about in the North Dublin area placing posters earlier today.

Full Story: Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch spotted putting up his election posters in Dublin

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Potential for rotating Taoiseach to return

Tániste Micheál Martin has said that he has “no threshold” for how many extra seats Fianna Fáil would need to win over Fine Gael to not facilitate a “rotating Taoiseach” arrangement.

In an interview with the Irish Mirror, Mr Martin said that the option of switching Taoiseach is “on the table for any future coalition”.

• Full Story: Micheal Martin raises potential for rotating Taoiseach to return in next government

Order in which the leaders will stand has been decided

The ten political leaders will be standing at lecterns for tonight’s two-hour debate.

The order in which they stand was decided by a draw earlier today which was recorded and posted on social media with Katie Hannon picking the names from a bowl.

The result was as follows: Joan Collins (Right to Left), Cian O’Callaghan (Social Democrats), Michael Collins (Independent Ireland), Micheál Martin (Fianna Fáil), Simon Harris (Fine Gael), Roderic O’Gorman (Green Party), Peadar Tóibín (Aontú), Ivana Bacik (Labour), Richard Boyd Barrett (People Before Profit-Solidarity), Mary Lou McDonald (Sinn Féin).

TV details for tonight's debate

The first of two definitive leaders’ debates will air this evening, offering voters unparalleled insights and direct engagement with party leaders as they face questions on their visions and policies for the nation’s future.

RTÉ Upfront with Katie Hannon Party Leaders’ debate will air at 9.35pm and will be available to watch live on RTÉ One, RTÉ News channel and worldwide on the RTÉ Player.