The family of an Irishwoman kidnapped in Haiti has appealed for her safe release, asking people to keep her and seven other hostages “in your hearts”. Gena Heraty, from Westport in County Mayo, was taken along with seven others, including a three-year-old child, from an orphanage in Kenscoff on August 3.
Ms Heraty oversees the orphanage, which is run by the humanitarian organisation Nos Petits Freres Et Soeurs (Our Little Brothers And Sisters). In a statement released through the Department of Foreign Affairs, her family said they were “still coming to terms with the awful news” and requested discretion at this “difficult” time.
Ireland’s Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, said he had raised her case with the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, and had spoken by phone to Haiti’s foreign minister, Harvel Jean-Baptiste. Mr Harris confirmed that the EU has designated a specific point of contact in Haiti to work directly with Ireland on efforts to free the hostages.
Crowds of locals and siblings of Ms Heraty attended a Monday mass in her parish church to pray for her safe return. The family said they were “truly so grateful” for the outpouring of support and urged everyone to “keep Gena, everyone taken with her, and their families in your hearts”.
A colleague and NPH Haiti youth, Jameson Camille, described Ms Heraty as a “vital and valued member of our community” who had dedicated her life to helping children with disabilities. He appealed directly to her captors: “We ask with all due respect, free Gena. Let her return to her vital mission, where she continues to serve humanity with love and compassion.”
