The family of Gena Heraty, an Irish Christian missionary kidnapped from a Haitian orphanage, has expressed their devastation over the situation, calling it "deeply worrying."
Ms Heraty, along with seven staff members and a three-year-old child, were abducted on Sunday when gang members stormed the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, near Port-au-Prince.
Attackers broke into the orphanage at around 15:30 local time (07:30 GMT) without opening fire, according to Mayor Massillon Jean, who described the assault as a "planned act."
The attackers breached the facility's wall to gain access before taking them as hostages.
Ms Heraty, originally from Westport in County Mayo, has devoted over 30 years to humanitarian work in Haiti, overseeing the care of vulnerable children, including those with disabilities. She served as the director of the orphanage, which is run by the humanitarian organisation Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs (Our Little Brothers and Sisters), providing care for over 250 children.
In a statement, Gena's family revealed they were working closely with the Irish Government, Haitian authorities, and international partners, stressing the urgency of securing the safe release of all those taken.
"Out of respect for Gena’s safety, we are not in a position to share further details at this time," the family added.
The kidnapping comes amid escalating gang violence in Haiti, where the UN has reported over 350 kidnappings in the first half of 2025.
Ireland’s Deputy Premier Simon Harris held talks with Haiti’s Foreign Minister, Harvel Jean-Baptiste, urging all efforts to secure the hostages’ release.
Speaking after the call, Harris said: "I welcome my engagement with Minister Jean-Baptiste after what has been an extremely traumatic few days for the Heraty family. The minister assured me of his support in our work to ensure the safe release of Gena and all the hostages."
Fr John Kenny, administrator of Westport Parish in County Mayo, described the local community as "saddened and shocked" by the kidnapping. He said many attended the weekly Monday mass to pray for Ms Heraty.
Her sister Mary spoke during the mass, and Fr John noted, "There were cars everywhere. People gathered, prayed quietly, and then met with the family to offer their support."
As international efforts continue, the Irish Government remains hopeful for Gena’s safe return, with the Heraty family and the Irish community closely monitoring the situation.