>> biko:/usr/bin# psql -U postgres template1
Maybe try : biko:/usr/bin# psql tempate1 -U postgres
I use PG on Debian too. I much prefer to compile from source. It's very
easy why don't you give it a try.
I've never had a problem compiling from source, just make sure to follow
the instruction's carefully in the INSTALL file.
Good luck
Regards Rudi.