Jim Gavin has announced his pulling out of the Presidential election race.
In a statement the former Dublin GAA manager says he's withdrawing with immediate effect after recent days gave him cause to reflect.
He's also thought long and hard about the potential impact of the ongoing campaign on the wellbeing of his family and friends.
He says he always knew the campaign would be robust and challenging.
In a message to party members this evening, Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said:
"I am writing to let you know that Jim Gavin this evening informed me of his decision to step away from the Presidential campaign with immediate effect.
"I fully understand his decision and believe it is the correct one.
"As we all know Jim has achieved an enormous amount in his life, something which was seen by all of us who campaigned with him in recent weeks.
"His commitment to service and helping others has always, quite rightly, defined his character and his great standing with the public.
"Jim has accepted that he made an error in relation to an issue which has arisen in recent days. As Jim himself has said, the office of Uachtarán na hÉireann is the highest in the land and the pinnacle of public service. He has also said he does not want to bring controversy onto this office.
"This has been a very difficult decision for Jim given his commitment to public service. I wish him well. I have no doubt that he will continue to make a significant contribution to Irish life and society."
