Security has been tightened up for the Taoiseach, Tanaiste and other Cabinet ministers.

It could also be extended to other TDs, following a number of threats by protestors. Security for President Michael D Higgins is also under review.

The Sunday Independent reports that security may also be extended to some gardaí, who have been identified by hard-line protestors.

The decision was reportedly taken following a meeting of the Crime and Security Division at Garda Headquarters last week, after the constituency office of Fine Gael TD Michelle Mulherin was firebombed.

It also comes after video footage emerged of protesters heckling and attempting to swarm around a car carrying President Higgins as he left a school in Finglas.

Mr Higgins (73) was called a "little midget parasite" and "traitor" as the group convened to protest his signing into law the Water Services Bill in December.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has also been advised to vary his route to and from Government Buildings as part of the new measures.

It has also emerged that Cabinet ministers will now give gardaí details of their diaries for the week so security risks can be assessed.

Yesterday, an estimated 40,000 people took part in protests against water charges across the country - with over half of them turning out at a major rally in Dublin.

Daniel McConnell is group political correspondent with Independent Newspapers. He explains the reasons behind the move.