Tanaiste Holds Talks With Haiti Over Kidnapped Irish Woman, Hostages

Irish Deputy Premier and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris has been actively engaged in securing the release of Irish aid worker Gena Heraty, who was kidnapped in Haiti along with seven others, including a three-year-old child. Ms. Heraty, who has dedicated over 30 years to supporting children and adults with disabilities at the NPFS orphanage in Kenscoff, was abducted by armed individuals linked to the Viv Ansanm gang, a group recently sanctioned by the United Nations and the European Union. Mr. Harris has held talks with Haiti's Foreign Minister Harvel Jean-Baptiste and raised the issue with the EU's foreign affairs chief, ensuring high-level diplomatic involvement and ongoing support for the hostages' safe release. Representatives from Ms. Heraty's organization have communicated with the gang leader through intermediaries, indicating a potential opening for negotiations. The situation has drawn widespread concern due to Haiti's deteriorating security environment, where gangs control many areas, complicating rescue efforts. Irish officials remain in close contact with Heraty's family and continue to explore all diplomatic avenues to bring about a resolution.