Fianna Fáil candidate Jim Gavin has tonight pulled out of the presidential race. The former GAA manager said he will withdraw with immediate effect, stating: “I made a mistake that was not in keeping with my character and the standards I set myself.”
A Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll published today put him in last place out of the three presidential candidates at 15%, behind Catherine Connolly (32%) and Heather Humphreys (23%).
A statement issued through the Fianna Fail press office, Gavin said: “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 Uachtaran na hEireann 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.
‘CAUSE TO REFLECT’
“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,” Gavin said.
“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.”
It is understood that Mr Gavin will remain on the ballot paper.
He added: “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.”