'Heartbreaking news' - Mayo TD 'shocked' after kidnapping of Westport woman

Mayo TD and Minister of State, Alan Dillon, has said he is shocked and deeply concerned after hearing that Gena Heraty from Westport has been kidnapped in Haiti.

“This is heartbreaking news. Gena has spent over 30 years helping children and people with disabilities in Haiti. She’s a brave and selfless woman, and we are all incredibly proud of her,” said Minister Dillon.

Gena was taken from the grounds of an orphanage in Kenscoff, Haiti, along with seven of her colleagues and a three-year-old child.

Minister Dillon confirmed he has contacted Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris to request urgent assistance.

“I spoke with the Tánaiste’s office this morning and asked that everything possible be done to help bring Gena and the others home safely,” he said.

The Tánaiste has since spoken with Gena’s sister, and the Department of Foreign Affairs is now working closely with, Gena’s family, local authorities in Haiti, the organisation Gena works with (Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs) and Ireland’s ambassadors and diplomatic staff on the ground.

"The people of Mayo and the West are behind Gena 100%. We’re all praying for her and thinking of her family during this awful time,” Minister Dillon added.

“She has given her life in service to others; now it’s our turn to support her. I will stay in close contact with the Tánaiste’s office and continue doing everything I can to help bring Gena home safely.”