Efforts continue to secure release of priest in Philippines

Prayers have been said at masses across the country for Fr. Michael Sinnott who is being held by an armed gang in the Philippines.

Concerns are growing for the welfare of the 79-year-old, who needs regular medication.

The Columban priest, a native of Barntown in Co Wexford, was abducted from his compound in Pagadian city on Sunday last

Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin said efforts are being made to secure his safety,

“We're working flat out to try and secure the release of Fr. Sinnott and obviously we're concerned about his health so his release is urgently required and sought.

“There are very intensive efforts being made by the local population there as well because he's very well loved by the local community and the minister confirmed that to me that the fathers are held in the highest esteem because of the great work they've done down through the years.”