The man accused of raping two young girls who were allegedly lured from a children’s birthday party in Athlone has made a second court appearance.
A request by the 30-year-old homeless man's lawyers to have him transferred to Cloverhill prison in Dublin was turned down.
The 30-year-old was the first name called at this morning’s session at Harristown District court beside Castlerea prison.
He appeared in a white T-shirt, jeans and white trainers for a hearing that was over in a minute.
A request by Inspector Aidan Minnock of Athlone Garda Station to further remand the accused in custody until October 18 was granted.
The 30-year-old, who is charged with raping a six-year-old girl and a nine-year-old girl last Saturday, was represented by Gearoid Geraghty.
He requested that his client be transferred to Cloverhill prison in Dublin - he said it was a recent request.
Judge Geoffrey Browne refused on grounds he doesn’t have the jurisdiction to order such a move, as it is a matter for the prison service.
Since his first court appearance on Tuesday the accused was put on suicide watch and he has been offered protection while in custody.