McGuinness currently sole FG runner for Aras

Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly said his decision not to contest the presidential elections this coming October was based on "gut instinct". The former GAA President has officially pulled out the race to succeed President Mary McAleese, but added he would not rule himself of running for Áras an Uachtaráin in the future. John Bruton has already ruled himself out of contention. Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Mr Kelly said it was his own decision to opt out as a presidential candidate. "The last thing they (Fine Gael) want is a candidate who isn't committed to the job, and I felt I could make a bigger contribution to Europe and Munster by withdrawing from the race," he said. The 59-year-old added that personal factors had also influenced his decision, including the fact that he had children still in school. Mr Kelly said he looked forward to continuing to provide "strong representation" for the people of Ireland South at the European Parliament, adding that it was more important than ever for Irish MEPs to make sure Ireland's voice was heard at EU-level. He expressed his thanks to his well-wishers and all those who had "gladly pledged to assist" in the event of a presidential campaign. Mr Kelly's withdrawal leaves Fine Gael with just one declared candidate for its presidential nomination, Ireland East MEP, Drumconrath , Co Meath-based Mairead McGuinness. Elsewhere Fianna Fáil MEP for Munster Brian Crowley is tipped to be his party's most likely candidate, while Labour will choose a nominee from between former TD Michael D Higgins, Barnardos CEO Fergus Finlay and former Senator Kathleen O'Meara. Two Independents have also declared their intention to seek nomination - Senator David Norris and Special Olympics CEO Mary Davis.