The families of the two young girls who were allegedly raped in Athlone last weekend have issued a statement thanking the gardaí and the local people for their support.

They say the level of public empathy and practical assistance they have received has been a source of comfort to them at this most difficult time.

The statement in full reads:

"We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation of An Garda Síochána for their support and tireless efforts at this difficult time. Their compassion and professionalism has been a source of great comfort for us and, more importantly for our precious little daughters. The other professional care providers have also helped us to begin to find our way through this challenging period. Finally, we would also like to recognise the kindness and practical support that we have received from the people of Athlone. The level of public empathy and practical assistance has been immense and again it has been a source of comfort to us all at this most difficult time".

A 30-year-old man who cannot be named for legal reasons appeared before Longford District Court yesterday charged with four counts of raping the 6 and 9-year-old girls.

He has been remanded in custody and will appear in court again this Friday.

A psychiatric evaluation has been agreed to and Judge Seamus Hughes also ordered that he be placed on suicide watch and be afforded all of the necessary protection in custody.