Gena Heraty a 'caring, compassionate' person, says local priest
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Ms Heraty, a native of Westport in Co Mayo, who is in her mid-50s, oversees the Sainte-Helene orphanage in the commune of Kenscoff, about 10km southeast of the capital Port-au-Prince.
Father John Kenny, the administrator of Westport parish, said Ms Heraty's family are "very appreciative" of the support they have received since she was abducted from the orphanage.
Speaking on RTÉ's Today with Colm Ó Mongáin, Fr Kenny said supporters had an opportunity to console Ms Heraty's family at a prayer service in Westport yesterday evening.
"They were there in great solidarity and great numbers ... cars were everywhere, and people were gathered and quietly prayed and met with the family afterwards," Fr Kenny said.
He added: "The family are very appreciative of the support and very conscious that people are praying in support of them."
Fr Kenny said Ms Heraty is "not one for the spotlight" but loves talking about her work and has always been greatly supported by the local community when raising funds for the orphanage.
"You could see her beaming with enthusiasm and energy around what she does, but like I said, never looking for the credit to herself but always drawing attention to herself.
"That's just the nature of the person she is. A wonderful, generous, caring and compassionate person - a great human being," Fr Kenny said.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris held talks overnight with his Haitian counterpart about the abduction of Ms Heraty.
In a statement, the Tánaiste said he asked Haiti's Foreign Minister Harvel Jean-Baptiste "that everything is done to ensure the release of Gena and the other hostages".
Mr Harris said Mr Jean-Baptiste had "assured me of his support in our work to ensure the safe release of Gena, and all the hostages, who have gone through the most horrendous of ordeals".
"We have agreed to stay in touch about the case, which remains extremely sensitive," he added.
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