A sitting TD has unexpectedly pulled out of the general election.

Independent TD Tom Fleming had been seeking re-election in the newly combined Kerry constituency.

But Radio Kerry this evening reports that the TD has pulled out of the race.

He told the station he feels he is "lagging behind" in the northern half of the constituency.

The withdrawal will significantly change the dynamic of the campaign - where six incumbent TDs from both of the previous Kerry constituencies were fighting to retain their seats in a new five-seater.

The withdrawal is likely to benefit Fianna Fáil, of which Fleming was a longtime member and former candidate.