Intensive efforts continuing to secure release of Gena Heraty, Tánaiste says

By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

Intensive efforts are continuing to secure the release of an Irish woman kidnapped along with seven other people from an orphanage in Haiti, Tanaiste Simon Harris said.

Mr Harris said no stone would be left unturned in efforts to ensure the release of Gena Heraty, who oversees the Sainte-Helene orphanage in Kenscoff, close to the capital Port-au-Prince.

Mr Harris said he had been in contact with Ms Heraty’s family on Monday.

Ms Heraty is originally from Westport in Co Mayo.

She oversees the orphanage, which is run by the humanitarian organisation Nos Petits Freres Et Soeurs (Our Little Brothers And Sisters).

It is understood Ms Heraty was among seven employees who were taken in the incident as well as a three-year-old child.

The Tanaiste said: “Intensive and ongoing efforts aimed at securing the release of Gena, as well as the seven other hostages being held captive in Haiti, are continuing this evening.

“This is an extremely sensitive case; one that is being worked on tirelessly by our teams in Dublin, Washington and London.

“Throughout the day, both my officials and I have been in close contact with Gena’s family.

“We are also in touch with local authorities and Nos Petits Freres Et Soeurs, the organisation Gena works for.”

He added: “This evening, I want to reiterate our commitment to ensuring everything possible is done to bring about the release of Gena, her co-workers and indeed the three-year-old child at the centre of this case.

“Gena is a deeply courageous and kind-hearted person who has given so much of her life to the humanitarian work that she cares so much about.

“As Tanaiste, I treat the safety and wellbeing of all our citizens with seriousness and sensitivity.

“When further updates are available, they will be provided.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it is aware of the incident and is providing consular assistance.