
He issued a statement this evening.
Fianna Fáil’s presidential candidate Jim Gavin has announced his withdrawal from the race.
In a statement issued this evening, he said recent reports about his failure to register a tenancy with the Residential Tenancies Board had given him “cause to reflect.”
Kfm understands that some Fianna Fail members, including TDs and Senators, are now questioning the judgement of party leaders in putting forward the former Dublin GAA manager.
“When I announced my intention to contest the presidential election, I did so in a spirit of lifelong public service and a love of country. That has always been my sole motivation,” Mr Gavin said.
Mr Gavin described the presidency as “the highest office in the land and the pinnacle of public service,” insisting it must remain “untainted by controversy or distraction.”
He acknowledged the campaign was always going to be “robust and challenging” and stressed that he has “never shirked from a contest,” but added: “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 well-being of my family and friends.”
Citing those reasons, Mr Gavin confirmed he was withdrawing “with immediate effect” and returning “to the arms of my family.”
He concluded by thanking supporters, saying he had been “humbled by the encouragement and kind words” he received during the campaign.
“I truly hope you understand my decision and do not feel let down,” he added.
Earlier, Mr Gavin said he was reviewing reports that he owes a former tenant €3,300. He explained how he did not yet have “all the information” about the case.
The Irish Independent reported that the issue dates back to a period when his family was under financial strain. The dispute concerns an apartment he owned in Dublin’s north inner city. A couple rented it between 2007 and 2009.
After they moved out, rent continued to be paid by standing order into Mr Gavin’s account due to a banking error. The tenant told the newspaper he wrote to Mr Gavin, asking for the €3,300 to be returned. He alleged that the money was never refunded, despite repeated attempts to contact him.
Just days ago, Mr Gavin was interviewed at length by Kfm, where he said if he was elected President, he would resign his role as CEO of the Irish Aviation Authority.
He also sought to clarify issues of defence force personnel appearing in social media posts, which he later deleted.
The Defence Forces are an apolitical organisation.