An Irish missionary was released after Haiti’s abduction

The family of the abducted missionary Gena Herati in Haiti said they were “relieved beyond words” when released.

G -Ja Herate, who is from Westport in Mayo County, is the director of an orphanage in Haiti and was among several people taken by suspected members of the band in Kencof, near the capital, on August 3.

This prompted the charity that he uses, as well as Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Michéal Martin, for her safe release.

In a statement on Friday, the family of Gja Herati confirmed that she, along with other captives, was released and thanked those who participated in her recovery.

“We are so grateful to everyone, in Haiti and internationally, who works tirelessly during these terrible weeks to help secure their safe return,” the statement added.

The family thanked Tanaist (Irish Deputy Prime Minister) Simon Harris and his team, as well as to the Irish Ambassador to the United States, Geraldine Burne, for their support.

“The global pouring of concern, love, prayers and solidarity shown for the gene and for us by friends, neighbors, communities, colleagues and really those who have no connection with us is a huge source of comfort and support,” they said.

The family said the priority was “Health, Protection and Privacy of G -Ja Herata”.

“We kindly ask the media to observe the need for confidentiality, as all participants are recovering from this traumatic test.

“We continue to keep Haiti in our hearts and hope for peace and safety for all who are affected by the ongoing armed violence and uncertainty there.”

Harris, who is also the Irish Foreign Minister, confirmed that Da Herates, as well as other captives, was reported “safe and good” and this is “the result we all hoped for.”

“This, of course, was an extremely difficult and stressful situation for Herata’s family,” he said.

“I would like to pay tribute to their stability and determination to support the gene and her colleagues captives during these difficult weeks.”

The Tanaist described the missionary as a “respected humanitarian and deeply brave man” who devoted his life to support the vulnerable people in Haiti.

“Although we welcome this news, it is also important not to miss out on the challenges of Haiti’s people,” he added.

“Now I am sending the gene, her family, and everyone who has released my best wishes. We will continue to provide all possible support as they are recovering from their terrible ordeal.”

Tommy Marron, who is a leader in Mid West Radio in Mayo and interviews the missionary several times, said he made a “great sense in relief”, knowing he was released.

“Her resilience has always been exceptional, and I think now more than ever she will be an adamant Haiti will be her home,” he told the BBC Radio Ulster evening program.

Marren said the family now “tries to focus on the good news” and hopes she will return to her home district “before the end of this year.”

Ms Heraty manages the orphanage managed by the humanitarian organization NOS Petits Frères et soeurs (our little siblings).

It is located in the Kencof Commune, about 10 km (6.2 miles) southeast of the capital, Port-O-Prem.

On August 3, the attackers invaded the syrup through a wall at a “planned attack”, said Mayor Masilo Jean at the time, before going to the building where he was staying.

The Haitian newspaper Le Nouvelliste has announced that the band members are thought to be responsible for the attack.

The gang’s violence and abductions are also common in other areas in and around Port-Pre-Prince, where the UN says armed groups control about 85% of the city.

In the first half of 2025, the UN figures show that almost 350 people were abducted in Haiti.