Gardaí have confirmed that human remains found on a farm in Co. Kerry are those of missing farmer Michael Gaine.

Michael Gaine, who was also known as Mike, was reported missing from his home near Kenmare on Friday, March 21, 2025.

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

Last weekend, gardaí confirmed that partial human remains had been found on lands owned by Michael Gaine in Carrig East, Kenmare.

It is understood that the human tissue was discovered as slurry was being spread on fields close to the farmyard.

Gardaí investigating the case declared a crime scene at the farmyard and along with some of the adjoining land.

State pathologist Dr. Sally Anne Collis and forensic anthropologist Laureen Buckley, assisted by the Garda Technical Bureau, carried out preliminary examinations at the scene.

Extensive search operations were also carried out, supported by local, regional, and national garda units, other emergency services and the Defence Forces.

DNA analysis was required to carry out formal identification of the recovered human remains.

In a statement issued this evening, a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána confirmed to Agriland:

"Gardaí continue to appeal to the public for assistance in this investigation.

"The Garda investigation team can be contacted at Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or speak with any member of An Garda Síochána."

Last Sunday (May 18), a man aged in his 50s, was arrested and detained on suspicion of the murder of Michael Gaine. He was released without charge the following day.

On the day he was last seen, Michael Gaine bought phone credit in Centra, Kenmare at 9:48a.m before leaving in his bronze coloured RAV4 with registration 152 KY 366.

This vehicle was found parked in Michael’s farmyard, just off the N71 at Carrig East, Kenmare.