A 54-year-old man charged with the murder of Co. Kerry farmer Michael Gaine has been further remanded in custody.

Michael Kelley, a US national of no fixed abode, appeared again today (Wednesday, April 1) before Tralee District Court via video link from Cork prison.

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.

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

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.

Sergeant Manton said there may also 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.

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 was last seen in Kenmare town on the previous day.

On May 25, 2025, gardaí confirmed 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 last February.