A Renua candidate in Cavan-Monaghan has become the fourth party representative to withdraw her candidacy ahead of the general election.

Mary Smyth, a counselling psychologist, stepped down after making comments party leader Lucinda Creighton believed “would be seen as deeply hurtful by members of the gay community”.

A series of posts on a private Facebook group were brought to Ms Creighton’s attention by party personnel, according to Renua’s spokesman, including a reference to the Vatican being “riddled with gay sex”.

Light show

Her comments followed Pope Francis’s decision to let St Peter’s Basilica be used for a light show during the Paris climate change talks.

“The parting of the ways was probably the best option all round,” the spokesman said.

Ms Smyth had described herself as “pro-family, pro-life and pro-community”.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Irwin, founder of the Jack and Jill Foundation, was due to run in Kildare South but decided to withdraw on doctor’s advice .

James Charity, who was selected in Galway West, left Renua after two months and returned to being an Independent councillor.

Shane Dunphy, a childcare expert, was due to contest in Wexford, but also decided not to run.