Irish missionary Fr Michael Sinnott who was kidnapped in the southern Philippines has been freed.
Fr Sinnott was snatched from his compound on October 11th by six gunmen who barged into the Columban House in Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur province, 890km south of Manila.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin tonight said "the release of Fr. Michael represents the successful conclusion of a major diplomatic effort by the Irish and Philippine Governments".
"Fr Michael Sinnott, a member of the Columban Fathers, displayed great forbearance in enduring more
than a month in captivity, in spite of his age and difficult health...and I know that the ordinary people of the Philippines will be overjoyed to have him returned safe and well to his community," he said.
Taoiseach Brian Cowen said " I am delighted to learn that Father Michael Sinnott has been freed...Government officials will be liaising with Fr Michael and offering any assistance we can, in bringing about a speedy reunion with his family and friends.”
The priest, who turns 80 on December 18th, had heart bypass surgery recently.