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Farm remains sealed off as searches continue in Gaine investigation

Michael Gaine, also known as Mike, went missing on 20 March
Michael Gaine, also known as Mike, went missing on 20 March

The scene in Kenmare, Co Kerry, remains sealed off and searches are continuing following the confirmation yesterday that human tissue found on Michael Gaine's farm was identified as his remains.

Mr Gaine, also known as Mike, was a 56-year-old sheep farmer who went missing on 20 March.

Initially, his disappearance was treated by gardaí as a missing person's case.

That changed just over three weeks ago when gardaí said they were satisfied Mr Gaine was dead and that they had re-classified his disappearance as a homicide investigation.

The confirmation of the identity of the remains comes nine days after human tissue was discovered in fields on Mr Gaine's farm in Kenmare where slurry was being spread by a family friend.

The discovery led to the farmyard and a number of adjoining fields being sealed off and declared a crime scene by investigating gardaí.

Since then, the area has been forensically and technically examined and searched by members of the Garda Technical Bureau, assisted by local garda search teams and by members of the Defence Forces.

A man in his 50s, who was arrested last Sunday on suspicion of Mr Gaine's murder, was subsequently released without charge.

The man has denied any involvement in Mr Gaine's disappearance.

The investigation into Mr Gaine's disappearance is being co-ordinated from an incident room at Killarney Garda Station and a garda liaison officer has been assigned to keep Mr Gaine's family briefed on developments.

Gardaí continue to appeal for public help in relation to Mr Gaine's disappearance. They can be contacted at Killarney Garda Station on 064-6671160, the garda confidential line on 1800 666 111, or at any garda station.