The Justice Minister has defended the presence of a large number of gardaí at protests against the installation of water meters because of illegal tampering with the system.

The issue surrounding the demonstrations at Edenmore in Dublin earlier this month was raised in the Dáil this afternoon by Socialist Party TD Joe Higgins.

Frances Fitzgerald says the gardaí had to be there in large numbers.

Protests and demonstrations against the water meters have been continuing recently.

A fortnight ago, the Taoiseach was confronted by water charge protesters at the opening of a day hospital in Dublin.

Gardai were called to a demonstration against the installation of the meters in Portlaoise on June 5th.

This follows similar protest in Cork, where residents of Ashbrook Heights - along with those in the neighbouring 'Palmbury' estate - placed blockades at the entrance.

Gardai were called to Ashbrook Heights in May, after up to 100 parents and children prevented Irish Water contractors from gaining access to the estate.

While those living at Watermill Drive in Raheny in Dublin also staged similar protests to stop workers from installing the meters.