We will know exactly who is running for election in each constituency around the country this lunchtime.

All nominations must be lodged by 12 pm this afternoon.

Meanwhile, anyone who wishes to vote in the election must ensure they are registered, or on the supplementary register, by close of business this evening.

Today marks day eight of the campaign with personal finance, pensions and rural Ireland on the agenda as candidates continue their push for votes.

Debate

This evening meanwhile, the first televised debate of the campaign will feature Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin.

The Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has been highly critical of the head-to-head format, calling it a ‘sham’ that she is being excluded as the leader of the third largest party.

Micheál Martin has argued that only Fine Gael or Fianna Fáil will be in a position to lead the next government because of the number of candidates running.

Meanwhile Leo Varadkar has said he is happy to debate McDonald – but is happy with the one-on-one format.

Campaign

On the campaign trail this afternoon, Mr Varadkar officially hand in his ballot papers, while his party colleagues  Simon Coveney and Michael Ring will reveal Fine Gael's plans for rural Ireland.

Fianna Fáil deputies Michael McGrath and Barry Cowen will discuss the party’s personal taxation proposals later this morning.

Sinn Féin finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty will also reveal his party’s insurance reform and pension policies.

Social Democrat co-leader Róisín Shortall is also due to discuss pensions this afternoon.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party will publish its plans for supporting renters while Green Party leader will take his campaign to Meath and Westmeath this afternoon.

People Before Profit is set to launch the first of the party’s general election manifestos at 11am this morning.

Register

If you are not sure whether you are registered to vote you can log on to checktheregister.ie to find out.

If it turns out you are not registered, the process involves downloading a form, getting it signed and witnessed at a Garda Station and then bringing it to your local council office.

Thousands of people who registered late for last year’s local and European elections or turned 18-years-old in the months since are being encouraged to make sure they are eligible to have their say.

Anyone who is still 17 but is due to turn 18 by February 8th is allowed to vote.