Mr Wilson has raised concerns about the decision to prosecute, following his arrest at a protest in Cavan last April.

He is expected to stand as an independent candidate for the Cavan-Monaghan constituency in the general election.

“I believe that the timing of this decision to prosecute me was made to damage my chances in the upcoming general election,” he said.

“I will vigorously contest the charge.

“If I am elected, I will support all efforts to dismantle Irish Water and to consign this toxic entity to the dustbin of history.”

Mr Wilson has been informed that he is to be summonsed in relation to the alleged offence, following direction from the DPP.

Mr Wilson and two other protesters were arrested on April 21 last, at Kinvarna Crescent estate, in Cavan, after gardaí were called when a stand-off developed between protesters and a water-meter installation crew.