Hassan murder video 'may have been around for days'

A Government spokesperson has said it was possible that the video of Margaret Hassan's murder had been around for a number of days.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said it was clear from the family’s statement that there must be now very grave concern for Ms Hassan.

“I cannot begin to imagine the state of their anxiety and distress,” he said.

“Those responsible for abducting Margaret stand condemned by everyone throughout the entire international community.

“If they have any humanity, they should now bring to an end the enormous pain and suffering that they have inflicted on an innocent and good family.”

Mr Ahern said his government’s thoughts and prayers were with Ms Hassan’s family.

Tonight Mrs Hassan's husband Tahseen said: "I have been told that there is a video of Margaret which appears to show her murder.

“The video may be genuine but I do not know.

“I beg those people who took Margaret to tell me what they have done with her.

“They can tell me. They can call the helpline.

“I need her. I need her back to rest in peace. Margaret lived with me in Iraq for 30 years. She dedicated her life to serving the Iraqi people. Please now, please return her to me.”

Care International released a statement which said they were ``shocked'' to hear of Mrs Hassan's death and that the whole organisation was in mourning.

It said: “It is with profound sadness that we have learnt of the existence of a video in which it appears that our colleague Margaret Hassan has been killed.

“We are shocked and appalled that this has been the apparent outcome of her abduction.

“We want to express our deepest sympathy to Mrs Hassan’s husband Tahseen, and to her family.

“Mrs Hassan was an extraordinary woman who dedicated her life to the poor and disadvantaged in Iraq, particularly the children. The whole of Care is in mourning.

“Through her courage, tenacity and commitment, Mrs Hassan assisted more than 17 million Iraqis living in the most difficult of circumstances. Everyone who met her was touched by her personality and compassion.

“Care staff and volunteers will continue working around the world fighting poverty, responding to humanitarian emergencies and helping to rebuild communities.

“Care sincerely thanks the Iraqi people for everything they did to try to secure the safe return of Margaret Hassan and for the many expressions of support.

“Our priority now is to support Mrs Hassan’s husband, Tahseen, and those most deeply affected by this tragedy.”