Candidate in Irish presidential race quits contest

Jim Gavin, Fianna Fail's candidate in the Irish presidential race, has quit the contest after acknowledging he "made a mistake that was not in keeping with my character".

His decision to drop out means there are just two people left: Fine Gael's candidate Heather Humphreys and left-wing independent Catherine Connolly. Mr Gavin, 54, faced repeated questioning during a televised debate and subsequent media interest about claims he owed a former tenant €3,000 (£2,600) in overpaid rent dating back 16 years.

His departure from the race poses questions for his main backers in Fianna Fail, including the party leader and Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin, who had some pushback within the party for driving Mr Gavin's candidacy. In a statement released via the party on Sunday night, Mr Gavin announced: "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." Read more from Sky News:Conor McGregor quits presidency raceMichael Flatley enters contest for president Micheal Martin said Mr Gavin's decision to end his campaign was the "correct one".

Although one poll also showed Mr Gavin was also trailing his rivals. A Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks survey put him in last place on 15%, behind Ms Connolly (32%) and Ms Humphreys (23%).

People Before Profit politician Paul Murphy - who is backing Ms Connolly along with a range of independents, Sinn Fein, the Social Democrats and Labour - said the withdrawal of Mr Gavin "clarifies the nature of this campaign". In a statement, he said: "It is now a straight choice between a Fine Gael former Minister, Heather Humphreys and a leading independent opposition TD [elected member of parliament], Catherine Connolly".

Fianna Fail saw internal conflict as both MEP Billy Kelleher and former leader Bertie Ahern unsuccessfully sought the party's nomination. Elsewhere, mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor, Riverdance star Michael Flatley and weather forecaster Joanna Donnelly were among well-known names to have sought a nomination..