Independent Dublin Rathdown TD Peter Mathews has confirmed he has been diagnosed with cancer, but says he is still standing in the general election.

Mr Mathews said he was given an “unexpected” diagnosis of oesophageal cancer in recent days but said the concerns of his constituents in areas such as mortgage arrears are more important.

“In January, I had to go for a routine medical examination which resulted in an unexpected diagnosis of oesophageal cancer,” he said in a statement.

“Following on from this initial diagnosis I underwent further tests in order to establish what the necessary treatment would be, as well as a prognosis for recovery. These further tests were only completed at the end of last week,” Mr Mathews said.

“The positive outcome is that with the necessary treatment the cancer is curable, and I expect to be back in full health on completion of treatment over the next number of months.”

Mr Mathews was one of three Fine Gael TDs elected in the old Dublin South constituency at the last election but lost the party whip after voting against the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill.

“My treatment will commence in the next few days, and while this will mean that my daily activities will be curtailed in the coming months, I have an excellent team in place who will continue to manage the office in my absence. During treatment I will continue to remain fully abreast of, and involved in, all relevant matters and decisions.

“I wish to reassure all of my constituents that in light of this diagnosis my decision to run for re-election has not been made lightly, and was only confirmed at the end of last week after careful consideration of all the relevant facts and prognosis.

“My commitment to representing the real interests of my constituents and of the Irish people remains as strong as ever, and if re-elected I will continue to work hard to secure the reforms necessary for greater transparency, accountability and fairness”