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An American man has been charged with the murder of his father at a five-star Irish hotel.

Henry McGowan, 30, from Clinton Street, Brooklyn, New York, appeared in Portlaoise District Court on Thursday.

He was charged after 60-year-old John McGowan was found with serious injuries in the leisure centre of Ballyfin Demesne Inn, in County Laois, shortly before 20:00 local time on Tuesday.

A defence lawyer told the court that his client has significant mental health difficulties.

The victim had travelled to Ireland from the United States on Tuesday, before checking into the hotel.

Judge Andrew Cody remanded the accused in custody and said he should receive immediate psychiatric assessment when he arrives at the prison

The case was adjourned to 18 November.