Mairead McGuinness Pulls Out Of Áras Race

Mairead McGuinness has pulled out of the Presidential race.

In a statement this afternoon the former EU Commissioner said she was doing so on medical advice after spending time in hospital last week.

She said she doesn't believe she has the strength to give the campaign her all.

She had been the favourite to win the election and replace Michael D Higgins.

A statement released this afternoon from Mairead McGuiness 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.

"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.

"I have spoken with the Tánaiste and Party leader, Simon Harris, and thank him for his support and understanding.

"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."