Protect function of daily chores (9)

I believe the answer is:

housework

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'daily chores' is the definition.
'housework' can be an answer for 'chores' (I have seen 'Domestic chores ' mean 'housework' so perhaps 'chores' could also mean 'housework'). I'm not sure about the 'daily' bit.

'protect function' is the wordplay.
'protect' becomes 'house' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'function' becomes 'work' (synonyms).
'house'+'work'='HOUSEWORK'

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for housework that I've seen is " Domestic chores in workhouse".)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.

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