Peter Casey has this morning suspended his Presidential campaign.

In a statement, he said: "In light of the events of the last few days, I am taking the weekend off from the campaign to think carefully about whether to continue this race.

"I do not want the people of Ireland to elect me as President of Ireland based on one statement I made.

"I want to be of service, and make a real difference. I have the expertise and ability to be an influencer. I want to connect people, at home and abroad. I know that my world expertise and global views will make me a uniquely suitable candidate for President of Ireland - with drive, ability and energy."

Peter Casey was sitting at 1% in the latest polls.

CASEY SUSPENDS CAMPAIGN pic.twitter.com/G84wMPkPO1

— Gavan Reilly (@gavreilly) October 19, 2018