The first TV debate of the presidential campaign is under way – follow here for updates

Humphreys is up next, defending the European military build-up. 

“We need to invest in our defence forces,” Humphreys says.

“There has been increased investment, I’m sure, over the years, and we need more. It’s as simple as that. “

Jim Gavin has seeming come out swinging, saying there needs to be an “honest conversation” about Connolly’s comments regarding European military build-ups.

He reflects on the war in Ukraine, emphasising the right of nations to defend their sovereignty.

“I proudly wore the Irish tricolour on my shoulders,” he says.

Asked if the government are neglecting the Defence Forces, Gavin says: “I’m not here to defend the government”.

He highlights Ireland’s long-standing peacekeeping role since 1958, praises the country’s neutrality, and notes the respect it commands internationally, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

Connolly was asked about her recent comments drawing parallels between the current German military build-up to the 1930s.

“I’m extremely worried about the military industrial complex that’s building up, particularly in Europe. Germany is just one of the examples, because they’ve actually said it very openly that that’s what their economy needs and it’s a boost their economy,” Connolly says. 

“I want to use the presidency to promote peace,” she adds, highlighting rising global poverty, shrinking welfare budgets, and the millions of displaced people globally.

Jim Gavin was last to open, highlighting his four decades of public service, from supporting disadvantaged communities to leading peacekeeping missions in Africa.

He stressed teamwork, respect, and unity, promising to be a “president for every section of society” and a voice for all.

Gavin described himself as determined, active, and positive, and said he looks forward to debating the role of the president.

Presidential Debate 2025: This is why Jim Gavin thinks you should vote for him in the upcoming presidential election. #TonightVMTV 👇 pic.twitter.com/BP2nhipg4t

— TonightVMTV (@TonightVMTV) September 29, 2025

Heather Humphreys opened next by asking voters to place their trust in her.

She highlighted her background as a credit union manager, over a decade in cabinet, and her role in the 1916 commemorations and the covid pandemic response.

“All my life I have seen the quiet strength of women,” she said.

“I can’t promise perfection, but I will promise honesty, compassion and service.”

Presidential Debate 2025: This is why Heather Humphreys thinks you should vote for her in the upcoming presidential election. #TonightVMTV 👇 pic.twitter.com/EeJYS5CR0S

— TonightVMTV (@TonightVMTV) September 29, 2025

Connolly was up first to pitch.

She greeted viewers in Irish and English during her opening address, asking for the privilege of serving as the next President.

The independent candidate emphasised building a “united republic” where everyone is valued, diversity is celebrated, and sustainable solutions are prioritized.

Connolly also highlighted Ireland’s role in promoting peaceful conflict resolution, drawing on the country’s history and experience with the Northern peace process.

She signed off by urging voters to give her “uimhir a haon”.

Presidential Debate 2025: This is why Catherine Connolly thinks you should vote for her in the upcoming presidential election. #TonightVMTV 👇 pic.twitter.com/fNR5U0WrG3

— TonightVMTV (@TonightVMTV) September 29, 2025

It’s an amicable affair so far as the candidates settle into their seats

Ramsey Cardy / SPORTSFILE


Ramsey Cardy / SPORTSFILE / SPORTSFILE

The debate is about to kick off shortly – time to put the kettle on.

Game, almost, on.

The first #aras25 TV debate – and the first three-way presidential debate in Irish TV history! – is underway at 10pm on Virgin Media One.

⁦@VirginMediaNews⁩ #TonightVMTV pic.twitter.com/82J8nm2sh7

— Gavan Reilly (@gavreilly) September 29, 2025

Jim Gavin has said that he’s “looking forward to” his first political debate tonight.

Gavin was out in Sandymount on the campaign trail today. Humphreys and Connolly had no public engagements for the day – instead, both presumably spent their time preparing for the debate.

🏁“The campaign begins in earnest tonight.”

Jim Gavin, Heather Humphreys and Catherine Connolly take the stage for the first TV debate of the presidential race. Don’t miss it on @TonightVMTV at 10pm on Virgin Media One & Virgin Media Play. pic.twitter.com/dRFVLlU9k1

— Virgin Media News (@VirginMediaNews) September 29, 2025

All candidates are now in the Virgin Media studios ahead of the debate.

Jim Gavin was the last to arrive, roughly half an hour ago.

They’re currently in the makeup chairs, with their teams giving them a final once-over and the candidates taking a last look over their notes before the cameras roll.

The stage is set for what (hopefully) promises to be a lively debate.

It’s likely that the candidates will play it safe and defensive, as there’s still four weeks to go until the polls open.

Fear not – reporters at Virgin Media’s Ballymount studios won’t be going hungry tonight. 

A stacked spread of sandwiches awaits in the media room.

Jane Matthews / The Journal


Jane Matthews / The Journal / The Journal

Need a refresher on how presidential debates have gone in recent years? Political Correspondent Jane Matthews has the explainer you need here

Here’s how the debate is going to look:

Moderator and host Kieran Cuddihy will give each candidate a 60-second opening pitch and 30 seconds to close.

Seating was decided by a draw – Catherine Connolly is in the middle, flanked by Jim Gavin and Heather Humphreys, with the former Dublin football bainisteoir sitting closest to Cuddihy.

For the duration of the debate, Cuddihy has promised that all three candidates will “tackle the big issues that will decide the election”.

📺 Presidential Debate | @TonightVMTV | 10 PM

The race for the presidency is on as Jim Gavin, Heather Humphreys and Catherine Connolly face off in the first TV debate of the campaign. With voting on Oct 24, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the candidates. pic.twitter.com/UlnMDrNRe6

— Virgin Media News (@VirginMediaNews) September 29, 2025

Welcome to our live coverage of tonight’s presidential debate on Virgin Media’s Tonight Show. We’ll be bringing you the key moments, sharp exchanges, and a bit of colour from the scene as it happens.