The files have been sent to the DPP in response to the November 15 anti-water charge protest in Tallaght, which saw Tánaiste Joan Burton and her special adviser, Karen O’Connell, trapped in a car for two hours. It will be up to the DPP to decide whether or not to direct charges against the individuals.

The cases are the first to be sent for consideration since 37 people were arrested last month. The eight files include those of Dublin South West TD Mr Murphy, Socialist Party councillors Mick Murphy and Kieran Mahon, and five other protesters.

Garda have recommended that all eight be charged with false imprisonment and violent disorder. Further files involving the remaining people recommending charges of criminal damage and assault are expected to follow.