The Ulster Unionist MEP, Mr Jim Nicholson, has given a public apology and said he is "extremely sorry" for the extramarital affair he conducted with a Co Armagh council worker.
There are continuing divisions within the party over Mr Nicholson's re-selection as a candidate for the June 10th European elections. Deputy party leader Mr John Taylor has openly condemned Mr Nicholson and has called for his resignation. The affair came to light as a result of newspaper reports.