REFILE-UPDATE 3-Lou Dobbs leaving CNN, does not reveal plans

(Refiles to fix update number in headline to UPDATE 3)

* Dobbs released from contract, effective immediately

* Says considering 'a number of options'

* Says wants platform to speak honestly and directly (Adds Obama 'birther' controversy, Latino group comment)

By Gina Keating and Steve Gorman

LOS ANGELES, Nov 11 (Reuters) - CNN host Lou Dobbs, whose outspoken views on U.S. immigration have made him one of the most controversial figures on television, said on Wednesday he is leaving the 24-hour cable news network immediately because he wants a freer platform to state his opinion.

Dobbs, who announced his departure near the start of his nightly news and commentary show, did not say where he plans to go, after nearly 30 years at CNN.

Dobbs, whose ratings have been on the decline, said he had been released from his contract, effective immediately, and wanted "to contribute positively to the understanding of the great issues of our day ... in the most honest and direct language possible."

A CNN source told Reuters Dobbs will be concentrating on his syndicated radio show, "The Lou Dobbs Show." The source would not confirm a New York Times report that he had met with Roger Ailes, chairman and chief executive of the Fox News channel, the News Corp-owned (NWSA.O) rival to CNN, a unit of Time Warner Inc (TWX.N).