A US national charged with the murder of Co. Kerry farmer Michael Gaine has been remanded in custody again today (Wednesday, March 18).

54-year-old Michael Kelley, of no fixed abode, appeared before Tralee District Court via video link from Cork prison.

Dressed in a green polo shirt, the accused spoke to confirm his name and that he was able to see and hear the court proceedings.

As the brief hearing began Kelley also greeted his solicitor, Pat Mann in court, saying "Good morning, Patrick".

Court

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

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

He said it was the State's application to have the accused remanded in custody for a further two weeks.

Solicitor Pat Mann said he had "no difficulty" with this, adding that "our bail application is in transit".

The court 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 David Waters granted the State's application and remanded Michael Kelley in custody.

He ordered that Kelley reappear at Tralee District Court via video link from Cork Prison, if he is still in custody, on April 1.

Farmer

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

The 56-year-old suckler and sheep farmer was last seen in Kenmare town on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

On May 25, 2025, gardaí confirmed that human remains found on lands owned by Michael Gaine were those of the missing farmer.