Man charged in connection with investigation into disappearance and murder of farmer

The 54-year-old defendant, of no fixed address, was arrested this afternoon at Castleisland Garda Station, police said.

Detective Sergeant Mark O’Sullivan, from Killarney Garda Station, told the court he had cautioned Kelley, explained the reason for his arrest and said he replied that he understood.

He then charged Kelley and told the court he made no reply to the charge.

Judge David Waters said due to the nature of the charge, a bail application would need to be sought in the High Court and remanded Mr Kelley in custody.

Solicitor for Kelley, Pat Mann, handed in a statement of means for the defendant and applied for legal aid, which was granted.

Kelley is next due to appear before Tralee District court via videolink on March 4.

The case is to go to trial at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin.

Mr Gaine, age 56, was last seen alive on the morning of March 20 last year when he bought phone credit in a shop in Kenmare.

After weeks of extensive searching involving Irish soldiers, the Coast Guard and the Garda water unit, Mr Gaine’s partial remains were found at his farm in May.

His death rocked the town of Kenmare, with mourners having packed a local church in the town in June to pay their final respects to the farmer.

Speaking on behalf of the family ahead of the funeral service, Mr Gaine’s cousin Eoghan Clarke remembered him as a “proud Kerry man and an even prouder Kenmare man”.

Mr Clarke said his cousin was known for his incredible work ethic, personality and humour, and was a loving son, sibling and uncle.

He recalled his passion for rallying, farming, current affairs, holidays and music.

“As we all know, Michael was generous. Incredibly generous. He had time for everyone and would chip in to help any time and any place,” he said at the time.

“Michael seemed to always find the time to do the work of three men on his own farm, help out friends, family and neighbours, keep up to speed on current affairs and enjoy himself.

“He loved life, he always made the most of it and he truly lived every single moment.

"Whether you met him during lambing or while on a trip away to a car show or rally event, he always had the iconic twinkle in his eye – the ‘I’m delighted to see you’, ‘I’m in great form’, ‘let’s go and enjoy ourselves’ glint in his eye."

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