The case against a man accused of murdering Kerry farmer Michael Gaine was further adjourned at Tralee District Court today (Wednesday, April 15).

Michael Kelley, a US national of no fixed abode, appeared again before the court via video link from Cork prison.

The 54-year-old is charged with the murder of Michael Gaine on a date unknown between March 20 and March 21, 2025 at Carrig, Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Kelley, who appeared to have a black eye when he appeared on screen, spoke initially to confirm his name and that he could see and hear the court proceedings.

Court

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

He said it was the State's application to further remand Michael Kelley in custody for three weeks by consent.

At the previous court sitting, Sergeant Manton had said there may be a future application to extend time for service of the book of evidence.

Solicitor for the accused, Pat Mann consented to today's application in court.

He told Judge Waters that a High Court bail application is "being assembled at the moment".

The judge previously noted 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 Waters granted the State's application and remanded Michael Kelley in custody to reappear at Tralee District Court on May 6.

During the brief hearing, Michael Kelley said there was "a lot of background noise" and he was struggling to hear the court.

In response, solicitor Pat Mann repeated to his client the date which he is due back before the court, which Kelley acknowledged.

Farmer

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

The 56-year-old suckler and sheep farmer has been last seen in Kenmare town on the previous day.

On April 29, 2025, gardaí upgraded their investigation into missing Kerry farmer to homicide.

Gardaí confirmed on May 25 that human remains that had been found on lands owned by Michael Gaine were those of the missing farmer.

Michael Kelley was charged with Michael Gaine's murder in February.