Gena Heraty, the Irish aid worker originally from Co. Mayo, has been released after being kidnapped in Haiti from the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff on 3 August 2025. She was held captive for nearly a month.Irish ExaminerTheJournal.ieThe Guardian
In a statement released 29 August 2025 via the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Heraty family shared: “We are relieved beyond words. We are so deeply grateful to everyone, in Haiti and internationally, who has worked tirelessly over these terrible weeks to help secure their safe return… For now our priority is Gena – her health, protection, and privacy… We continue to hold Haiti in our hearts and hope for peace and safety…”gov.ie
Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed his relief and gratitude, noting the effort of multiple stakeholders—including Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs, Haitian authorities, An Garda Síochána, UN and European partners, and the Department of Foreign Affairs. He called Gena a “deeply courageous person” who has dedicated her life to working with Haiti’s most vulnerable.gov.ieThe Guardian
Context & Background
Gena Heraty has been living and working in Haiti since 1993, running an orphanage that cares for around 270 children.Irish ExaminerThe Guardian
The kidnapping took place amid escalating gang violence in the Kenscoff region near Port-au-Prince. Authorities believe the Viv Ansanm gang was responsible. A dangerous ransom demand was made—one that far exceeded the orphanage’s capacity.The SunTheJournal.ie
Summary Table
Aspect
Details
Date of Kidnapping
3 August 2025 at the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, Haiti
Hostages Released
Gena Heraty, 7 colleagues, and a 3-year-old child
Duration in Captivity
Nearly four weeks
Statements Released
Heraty family, Tánaiste Simon Harris, Department of Foreign Affairs
Key Messages
Relief, gratitude, focus on Gena’s health and privacy, calls for peace in Haiti
Background Context
Long-term humanitarian service by Heraty; surge in gang violence; ransom demand
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