Tadgh McNally: Seán Sherlock's departure leaves major questions for Labour in Cork

The party will face an uphill struggle to retain its seat in Cork East

Seán Sherlock announced on Monday he will not stand in the next general election. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

After 21 years of unbroken service in the Dáil — and 27 years total — there won’t be a Sherlock representing Cork East after the next general election, with Labour now facing into choppy electoral waters.

Seán Sherlock took the decision to not run again after the Electoral Commission took his base of Mallow and shunted it out of Cork East and into Cork North Central. Mr Sherlock admitted as much in a statement announcing his departure from politics.