Judge: Let DPP deal with complaints if bailed rapist absconds

A Central Criminal Court judge has said it will be the DPP's responsibility if a rapist - allowed to remain out on bail - fails to attend court to be sentenced.

A man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty today to the rape of a woman in Dublin in April 2004.

Mr. Justice Paul Carney registered him as a sex offender and adjourned sentencing until October.

The State counsel said there were no objections when the accused's defence team asked that their client be allowed to remain on bail.

Mr. Justice Carney agreed to continuing bail, but said it would be the Director of Public Prosecutions, Claire Loftus, who would bear responsibility, telling the court: "The tabloid newspapers and rape crisis centres can go after her and not me'.