Gardaí stand down presence at Michael Gaine's farm as murder investigation continues

Gardaí have ended protection at the Kenmare farm where Michael Gaine’s remains were found, but the murder investigation remains active

A lone garda had been stationed at the gate to the large cattle sheds, slatted unit, old family home, and farmyard, located over 6km from Kenmare on the N71. Picture: Dan Linehan

Garda protection at the scene of the farm near Kenmare, where 56-year-old Michael Gaine was allegedly murdered in March, has been lifted, gardaí confirmed.

However, they continue to appeal for information and describe it as “a very active investigation,” according to a Garda statement.

A lone garda had been stationed at the gate to the large cattle sheds, slatted unit, old family home, and farmyard, located over 6km from Kenmare on the N71.

Mr Gaine, a married farmer, was reported missing on March 21 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 NPWS wildlife service. 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.

Michael Gaine

The remains were confirmed to be those of Mr Gaine.

Investigators now believe Mr Gaine was murdered on the farm on March 20.

A garda and patrol vehicle had maintained a visible presence at the gateway on the N71 since May, but this was stood down two weeks ago, the garda press office confirmed.

“The scene in Kenmare was stood down two weeks ago,” it said in response to a query on whether it was still under garda protection 24 hours a day.

It would not comment on the specifics, it also said.

"Gardaí continue to appeal to anyone who has information that may assist this investigation. The Garda investigation team can be contacted at Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or at any Garda station,” the statement said.