Heather Humphreys will not contest next general election

Fine Gael Deputy Leader Heather Humphreys has announced that she will not stand in the upcoming general election, saying "politicians are human too".

In a statement to RTÉ News, the Fine Gael TD said her shock decision came after "careful consideration".

"Politicians are human too, we give all we can for as long as we can but time catches up on us all," she said.

"As I get older, my health and energy levels are not what they were and I know going forward that I would not be able to give the job the time and commitment it deserves," she added.

The announcement came as a surprise to many and it means that 18 of the 35 Fine Gael TDs elected in 2020 are leaving politics.

Minister for Social Protection was first elected in 2011 and she has been a member of the Cabinet for the last decade.

The Cavan Monaghan TD was seen as favourite to top the poll in her constituency in the forthcoming election which is just weeks away.

Ms Humphreys, is seen as a strong voice on rural issues in the Government and was regarded by many colleagues as one of the party's key electoral assets.

She is known for her common sense and straight talking approach to matters and was promoted to deputy party leader by Simon Harris earlier this year.

Those in her local constituency organisation said that her decision is based on a belief that she does not have the energy to commit to another five years in politics.

Additional reporting Micheál Lehane