KATHERINE ZAPPONE HAS said the controversial water charges protest in Jobstown last year was one of the most traumatic experiences she’s ever had as a politician.

The independent senator was with Tánaiste Joan Burton and her advisors in Tallaght last November as they were egged, abused, and heckled.

They were making their way from the An Cosán community education centre, which Zappone co-founded, following a graduation ceremony.

The incident caused huge controversy with Burton and her special adviser Karen O’Connell held in a car for over two hours as part of a demonstration involving the Anti-Austerity Alliance TD Paul Murphy.

Zappone with Joan Burton during the protest in Jobstown last year

The matter has subsequently been the subject of a garda investigation.

Speaking to TheJournal.ie this week, Zappone strongly criticised the actions of Murphy, and said:

It was one of the most traumatic things I’ve ever experienced since I have been a politician.

She said there were moments when she felt the crowd was going to get out of control and said she was “deeply disappointed” with Murphy’s description of events.

Watch what Zappone had to say about the events of last year: 

Read: Ruth Coppinger wouldn’t have called Joan Burton the C-word

Read: Joan Burton ‘would have to be a key witness’ if Paul Murphy goes on trial

Read: Paul Murphy released from garda custody, says he didn’t answer questions about Jobstown