Gena Heraty: Priest Praises Compassion & Care

Irish Aid Worker Among Those Kidnapped in Haiti Orphanage Raid

An Irish woman, Gena Heraty, is among nine individuals – including a child – abducted from an orphanage in Haiti over the weekend, prompting urgent diplomatic efforts and an outpouring of support from her local community.

Heraty, a native of Westport, County Mayo, in her mid-50s, oversees the Sainte-Helene orphanage located in Kenscoff, approximately 6 miles southeast of Port-au-Prince. The kidnapping has ignited concerns about the escalating violence and instability plaguing the Caribbean nation.

Did you know? – Haiti has experienced a surge in kidnappings in recent years,with criminal gangs exploiting political and economic instability. The country’s security forces are frequently enough overwhelmed, hindering rescue efforts.

Community Rallies Behind Abducted Irish National

News of Heraty’s abduction has deeply impacted the community of Westport,where she is widely known for her dedication to humanitarian work. A local priest described Heraty as “a fantastic, generous, caring and compassionate person – a great human being.” He added that she is “not one for the spotlight” but passionately advocates for the children at the Sainte-Helene orphanage.

Supporters gathered for a prayer service in Westport on Thursday evening to offer solace to Heraty’s family. “They were there in great solidarity and great numbers… cars were everywhere, and people were gathered and quietly prayed and met with the family afterwards,” a community leader shared. The family has expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support received.

Pro tip: – When traveling to or working in high-risk areas, register with your embassy or consulate. This allows them to contact you in case of emergencies and provide assistance.

Diplomatic Efforts Underway to Secure Release

Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris has been in direct contact with his Haitian counterpart, Foreign Minister Harvel Jean-Baptiste, to secure the safe release of Heraty and the other hostages. According to a statement released by the Tánaiste, he urged Jean-Baptiste to prioritize the release of all those abducted.

“Mr. Jean-Baptiste assured me of his support in our work to ensure the safe release of Gena, and all the hostages, who have gone through the most horrendous of ordeals,” Harris stated. Both ministers agreed to maintain close communication as the situation develops.

Former Orphanage Resident Offers Prayers

A former resident of the sainte-Helene orphanage, Annabelle Pierre, has publicly expressed her hope for the swift and safe return of Gena Heraty.
humanitarian efforts and the safety of aid workers operating within the country.

Reader question: – What more can be done to support humanitarian workers operating in unstable regions like Haiti? Share your thoughts.

Why did this happen? Gena Heraty and eight others were kidnapped from the Sainte-Helene orphanage in Kenscoff,haiti,due to the escalating violence and instability in the country,where criminal gangs are increasingly active.

Who was involved? The key individuals are Gena Heraty, the Irish aid worker; Simon Harris, the Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs; Harvel Jean-Baptiste, the Haitian Foreign Minister; Annabelle Pierre, a former orphanage resident; and the nine individuals (including a child) who were abducted.

What occurred? Nine people, including Gena Heraty, were kidnapped from the Sainte-helene orphanage. This prompted diplomatic efforts from the Irish government and an outpouring of support from Heraty’s community.

How did it end? As of this report, the situation remains