A YOUNG man accused of striking a woman repeatedly over the head with a mug was remanded in custody until March 4.

The accused was due to appear in Cork District Court by video link from Cork prison.

However, it was not possible for him to be brought to the video-link room in the prison due to routine quarantine for new prisoners. He was represented by Frank Buttimer, solicitor, who was present in Cork District Court for the case.

Judge Olann Kelleher adjourned the case for a fortnight. Sergeant Pat Lyons said directions were awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Jordan Waters, aged 22, with an address at Mount St. Joseph’s Drive, Gurranabraher, Cork, was arrested and charged with carrying out an assault causing harm on the 30-year-old woman.

Garda Mary-Jane Somers said when he was arrested last week: “The nature of the evidence is very strong. It is alleged that at 4am on Wednesday, February 10, at an apartment at 27 Leitrim St, a female was assaulted in an unprovoked attack.

“The alleged suspect propositioned a female. When declined he got angry. He hit her over the head with a mug a number of times, leaving her with a significant two-inch laceration to her face." 

There was an objection to bail because of the possibility of interference with witnesses.

Mr Waters told Judge Kelleher he had mental health issues, saying that he had been diagnosed with depression and added, “I hear voices.”

Judge Kelleher asked the young man if he was taking prescribed medication and he replied, “Not really. I don’t like what it does to me.”

Judge Kelleher refused bail and directed he get psychiatric assistance in prison.