Lucky general Kenny seeks to confound critics again
For the early part of his political career, few - if any - would have predicted events would lead to Enda Kenny being poised to win consecutive terms as Taoiseach, writes Western Correspondent Pat McGrath.
Burton hoping hard work pays off for Labour
Assuming leadership of Labour two years ago was a high point for Joan Burton. After more than 30 years in the party, it was her time. But with the junior Coalition partner languishing in the polls, General Election 2016 could be make or break, writes Sharon Tobin.
Election throws up another test for Martin
This will be another "defining" election for Micheál Martin. No big deal there - every election Martin has fought since he was elected as the eighth leader of Fianna Fáil has been a defining election, writes RTÉ Southern Editor Paschal Sheehy.
Election is latest chapter in Adams' complicated history
Provo. Peacemaker. Parliamentarian. Prolific Tweeter. Gerry Adams' leadership of Sinn Féin has had many incarnations, writes RTÉ's Samantha Libreri.
Donnelly, Murphy and Shortall - Are three heads better than one?
The Social Democrats, the country's newest party, is unique in that it has three leaders, writes RTÉ's Ailbhe Conneely.
Lucinda Creighton aiming to renew political fortunes
Born in 1980, Lucinda Creighton is the youngest party leader running in the General Election. The daughter of a bookmaker and a teacher, she grew up in Claremorris, Co Mayo and has one sister, writes RTÉ's Ailbhe Conneely.
Boyd Barrett hopes to profit from people power
According to Google trends, Richard Boyd Barrett was searched quite a bit during February 2011 - a sign perhaps that his electoral breakthrough in the last election led to people asking just who was the political newcomer, writes RTÉ's Ailbhe Conneely.
