FIANNA FÁIL CANDIDATE Jim Gavin announced his shock withdrawal from the presidential race last night. 

The announcement came after two debate performances that were widely described as underwhelming.

In yesterday’s debate on RTÉ’s The Week in Politics, Gavin was unable to give a definitive answer to a question about whether he still owed the sum of €3,300 to a former tenant. 

Before yesterday’s debate, the former GAA manager had a number of campaign hiccups and polling had placed him well behind his opponents Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys. 

Here is Jim Gavin’s statement in full:

When I announced my intention to contest the presidential election I did so in a spirit of lifelong public service and a love of country. That has always been my sole motivation.

I believe deeply in this country, its dreams, its hopes and above all its people. The office of Uachtarán na hÉireann is the highest in the land and the pinnacle of public service. It is an office that must be untainted by controversy or distraction.

I always knew the campaign would be robust and challenging and anyone who knows me knows that I have never shirked from a contest. I have always sought to act in honour and good faith.

However recent days have given me cause to reflect.

I made a mistake that was not in keeping with my character and the standards I set myself. I am now taking steps to address the matter.

I have also thought long and hard about the potential impact of the ongoing campaign on the wellbeing of my family and friends.

Taking all these considerations on board, I have decided to withdraw from the presidential election contest with immediate effect and return to the arms of my family.

Throughout this campaign I have been humbled by the encouragement and kind words I received.  So many people have gone out of their way to support me in so many ways, and I would like to express my sincere thanks to them. I truly hope you understand my decision and do not feel let down.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh.