Jim Gavin Withdraws From Irish Presidential Race Right Away

Fianna Fáil candidate Jim Gavin has announced he is pulling out from the race for Ireland's head of state with "immediate effect".

He was scheduled to be one of three candidates vying for the role of Irish president, alongside Independent TD Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys of Fine Gael.

Yet, Sunday night he announced through a declaration he had "made a mistake that was not in keeping with my character and his personal standards."

"Considering all these factors, I've resolved to leave the presidential race immediately and return to the arms of my family," he stated via a statement.

More to follow.