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Michael Kelley is accused of murdering the Kerry farmer in March last year. Alamy

US citizen accused of Michael Gaine murder makes short Kerry court appearance to confirm name

54-year-old Michael Kelley is scheduled to appear in court again on 18 March.

THE MAN ACCUSED of murdering Kerry farmer Michael Gaine has appeared in court again.

Michael Kelley, a 54-year-old man and US national, appeared before Tralee District Court this morning.

Kelley, of no fixed abode and with a recent address in Tralee is charged that on a date unknown between 20 and 21 March 2025, at Carrig, Kenmare, Co. Kerry he did murder 56-year-old Gaine.

Last week’s court heard he made no reply when charged.

Appearing via video link this morning, he spoke to confirm his name and that he could see and hear the court.

“Yes, I am Michael Kelley,” he said.

Solicitor Pat Mann greeted his client.

Court Presenter Garda Sergeant Chris Manton said the State’s application was for further remand in custody to 18 March for production of the Book of Evidence.

Mann said he had no objection to this. A High Court bail application was being formulated on behalf of his client, the solicitor said.

The court heard that was unlikely the book of evidence would be ready by then.

Judge Waters further remanded Kelley to appear in Tralee on 18 March. Legal aid has already been granted.

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