Irish missionary among eight released after Haiti orphanage kidnapping

Eight people, including Irish missionary Gena Heraty and a three-year-old child, have been released after nearly a month in captivity following a kidnapping at the Saint-Helene Orphanage in Kenscoff, near Haiti’s capital.

Heraty, originally from Westport, County Mayo, is the director of an orphanage run by the humanitarian organization Nos Petits Frères et Soeurs, which cares for more than 240 children. She was released along with seven other captives, including a three-year-old child, ending nearly a month in captivity.

Heraty’s family expressed relief and gratitude, thanking Irish officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris and Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason, for their support. Harris confirmed all captives are “safe and well” and praised their resilience, describing Heraty as a “respected humanitarian and deeply courageous person.”

The kidnapping occurred on August 3, when attackers reportedly broke into the orphanage through a wall. No group has claimed responsibility, though gang activity is widespread in Port-au-Prince, where armed groups control much of the city.

Heraty’s family emphasized the priority of her health, protection, and privacy, requesting that the media respect her recovery.

The release coincides with UN Security Council discussions on strengthening the international police force in Haiti, which has faced staffing shortages. Proposals aim to expand the mission and establish a UN office in Port-au-Prince to provide operational and logistical support.

UN reports indicate at least 3,141 deaths in Haiti in the first half of 2025, with roughly half of gang participants being children. Despite past challenges in UN missions, Haitian authorities continue to seek international assistance amid rising insecurity.

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