Ireland’s presidential candidates are gearing up for a pivotal debate on RTÉ One this Sunday, October 5, at midday, as part of the intensifying 2025 election campaign. Hosted by veteran broadcaster Áine Lawlor on *The Week in Politics*, the live studio showdown will feature Independent Catherine Connolly TD, Fianna Fáil’s Jim Gavin, and Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys. The trio will tackle critical issues facing the nation’s tenth president, including housing, immigration, international relations, and domestic challenges like Gaza and urban safety.
This follows a cautious first televised debate on Virgin Media last week, where candidates focused on messaging rather than confrontation, avoiding major missteps. Connolly, fluent in Irish, emphasized national representation, while Humphreys defended her ministerial experience and Gavin addressed past comments on global conflicts.
RTÉ’s extensive coverage, including streaming on RTÉ Player, aims to inform voters ahead of the October 24 polling day. Analysts expect heated exchanges as candidates vie for the Áras, with no incumbent following Michael D. Higgins’ term limit. Viewers can anticipate insights into leadership visions for Ireland’s future.
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