A 54-YEAR-OLD US national is to be sent forward to the next sittings of the Central Criminal Court on a single charge of the murder of Kenmare farmer Mike Gaine.

Michael Kelley, of no fixed abode but with a recent address in Tralee, is charged with murdering Michael Gaine (56) on a date unknown between 20 March and 21 March 2025

During Michael Kelley’s first appearance on 25 February, the court heard that he made no reply when charged.

He has been remanded in custody since then, appearing by video link from Cork Prison, awaiting the book of evidence.

The book has now been served, and Mr Kelley was in court, his solicitor Patrick Mann informed judge David Waters at Tralee District Court today.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has given consent to send him forward for trial to the next sitting of the Central Criminal Court.

Judge David Waters asked Mr Kelley if he understood what an alibi was, and he replied “Yes Sir” and “Yes, your Honour” when the question was repeated.

The judge told him any alibi would have to be furnished within 14 days.

An application for legal aid for a solicitor and two counsel was granted.

The judge noted bail was not a matter for the District Court.

As he left, the accused thanked his solicitor.

Mr Kelley appeared with short hair and a neatly trimmed beard. He was wearing a green polo shirt and a fawn coloured trousers.

Janice Gaine, the wife of the late Mike Gaine, was in court in Tralee for the proceedings, along with a number of friends of the late farmer.

Mike Gaine was declared missing on 21 March 2025, prompting a large-scale search.

The investigation was upgraded to homicide on 29 April, and on 25 May gardaí confirmed that human remains found on his lands at Carrig east were those of the missing farmer.