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FORMER FIANNA Fáil minister Mary O’Rourke has defended Ceann Comhairle John O’Donoghue over his foreign travel and expenses bills when he was minister for arts, sports and tourism between 2002 and 2007.

Speaking on Newstalk’s Lunchtime show, Mrs O’Rourke said she would not be putting a “heavy hand” on him to apologise.