Martin to hold talks with Sudan over Commins release

The Minister for Foreign Affairs will today continue talks with the Sudanese government in an attempt to secure the release of Sharon Commins.

The 32-year-old aid-worker from Dublin and her Ugandan colleague were abducted by a gang of armed men from the GOAL compound in Darfur two months ago.

Michéal Martin arrived in Sudan on Saturday night and carried out meetings with senior Sudanese government personnel throughout yesterday.

The discussions are part of ongoing attempts to secure the release of Sharon Commins and her co-worker Hilda Kawuki.

Sudanese authorities say the two women are in "excellent health".

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