Efforts continue to free kidnapped Irish woman

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Michéal Martin will today hold talks with Sudanese government officials in an effort to secure the release of Irish aid worker, Sharon Commins.

The 32-year-old - from Clontarf in Dublin - was kidnapped at gunpoint from the GOAL compound in Darfur more than two months ago.

Her Ugandan co-worker, Hilda Kawuki, was also taken by the gang of armed men.

Sudanese authorities said the kidnappers are members of a nomadic tribe in north Darfur and are seeking a ransom.

They said they are continuing to liaise with tribal elders in an effort to free the women.

GOAL director, John O'Shea, has welcomed Mr Martin's decision to visit Sudan and said he is hopeful that the trip and the planned talks can help secure the women's release.