O'Donoghue set to face pressure over expenses

The Ceann Comhairle, John O'Donoghue, is set to face more pressure this week to consider his position following the latest revelations about his expenses claims.

On Friday, Mr O'Donoghue placed documents in the Dáil library showing that he has spent almost €90,000 of taxpayers' money on foreign travel since taking on his new job in 2007.

The documents also show that he has spent more than €13,000 on domestic travel, most of it on flights between Dublin and Kerry, even though he has a state car.

The latest revelations follow Mr O'Donoghue's apology last month for the expenses he ran up in his previous position as Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism.

He has also been criticised for significantly expanding staff levels in the Ceann Comhairle's office and for appointing a political advisor even though he is supposed to be non-political.

Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore has responded to news of the latest expenses claims by calling for a meeting of all party leaders to discuss the situation.

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny, meanwhile, wants the Ceann Comhairle to reduce his staff levels, remove his special advisor from his position and repay any costs that did not directly relate to his office, if they exist.

Mr Kenny says that, if these issues are not addressed, Mr O'Donoghue should consider his position.