Michael Gaine murder accused further remanded in custody

The book of evidence in the case is not yet available, the court heard

Michael Kelley, 54, outside Tralee Courthouse in Tralee, County Kerry. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire

A 54-year-old man charged with the murder of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine was further remanded in custody this morning.

Michael Kelley, a US national, of no fixed abode and with a recent address in Tralee, is charged that on a date unknown between March 20 and March 21, 2025, at Carrig, Kenmare, he did murder 56-year-old Michael Gaine.

Michael Kelley's first appearance on February 25 heard he made no reply when charged. He has since appeared every fortnight via video link.

He appeared again today before Tralee District Court via video link from Cork prison.

During this morning's short hearing, the accused spoke to confirm his name and that he could see and hear the court proceedings. He also greeted his solicitor, Pat Mann.

Court presenter Sergeant Chris Manton told Judge David Waters that the book of evidence in the case is not yet available.

He said it was the State's application to further remand Michael Kelley in custody to reappear at Tralee District Court in two weeks.

Mr Manton said there may be a future application to extend time for service of the book of evidence.

Solicitor Pat Mann said his client consented to today's State application.

He added that they were waiting for documentation needed for a bail application at the High Court. The solicitor said he expected proceedings to take place shortly.

It was noted during a previous court sitting that no application for bail can be made on a murder charge at the district court, such applications must be made at the High Court.

Judge David Waters granted the State's application and remanded Michael Kelley in custody to reappear at Tralee District Court on April 15 next.

Michael Gaine was reported missing from his home near Kenmare, Co. Kerry, on March 21, 2025.

Mr Gaine, a married farmer, was reported missing after he was last seen the previous day in Kenmare. His vehicle, phone, and personal belongings were found at the farm in Carrig East.

An extensive search of the surrounding mountainside and other areas took place with support from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). A murder inquiry began in late April.

The farm property was declared a crime scene in mid-May, and the State Pathologist and forensic teams were called in after suspected human remains were discovered in slurry tanks on the farm.