Michael Stone appeared before a prison camera yesterday for a video link remand appearance.
Stone (51) who suffers from acute arthritis, was on crutches when he appeared on screen from Maghaberry Prison.
His difficulties were such that when his case was called at Belfast Magistrates Court a prison officer asked that it be passed.
He said it would take a couple of minutes for Stone to get into position.
When he eventually appeared on screen he spoke only to confirm that he could see and hear the court.
Stone is accused of attempting to murder Gerry Adams, Martin McGuinness and two security guards as well as possessing home-made explosives and a real or imitation gun.
The offences occurred at Stormont last month when Stone's actions led to the hurried evacuation of parliament buildings.
At a High Court bail application earlier this week a defence lawyer said Stone, who has become a well-known painter, had been engaged in an act of "performance art" and did not intend to endanger anyone.
Resident Magistrate Fiona Bagnall remanded Stone in custody until January 19th.