Irish presidential candidate announces shock withdrawal from race

The Fine Gael candidate said it was a 'very difficult decision.'

Fine Gael candidate Mairead McGuinness released a statement on her withdrawal, saying it was a 'very difficult decision'.

In a statement released this afternoon, the former EU Commissioner said: "I have made the very difficult decision to withdraw my name as the Fine Gael nominee for the presidential election.

"This decision is not lightly taken and follows a stay in hospital last week.

"My priority now is my health. Given that the election is in a short couple of months, I do not believe that I have the strength to give the campaign my all."

She continued: "I am taking this decision on medical advice and while it is extremely difficult, it is the right decision for me and my family.

"I appreciate that this will come as a shock and disappointment to party members and colleagues in Fine Gael, but our political family is strong."

McGuinness further revealed that she spoke to the Tánaiste and Fine Gael party leader, Simon Harris, to thank him for his support.

"I also want to thank all of those people who have done so much to support me, now and in the past.

"My focus now is my health and my family, and I ask for privacy in the time ahead," she added.

Harris stated that McGuinness has 'made an incredible contribution to public life in Ireland and in Europe'.

In his statement, he added: "It was our clear view in Fine Gael and the view of many people across Ireland that Mairead would make an excellent president of Ireland.

"Mairead's health will not now allow this. This has come as an awful shock to us all. Mairead is a valued member of our Fine Gael family. It is absolutely essential that she now prioritises her health and I know I speak for everyone when I wish her all the very best on that journey."

Martin Heydon, Fine Gael's Director of Elections for the upcoming presidential election, revealed: "The Fine Gael Executive Council will meet in the coming days to discuss the next steps, but for now, I, along with Mairead's many friends and colleagues within the party, send their very best wishes to her and her family."