AT a time when the country was consumed by economic doom and gloom the release, last week, of Columban priest, Fr. Michael Sinnott (79) from captivity in the Philippines was described as a “breath of fresh air”. The release of Co. Wexford born Fr. Sinnott, following 32 days in captivity was “won-derful news” for the Halley family in Waterford, despite the fact that it brought back sad memories of their own brother who lost his life in the Philippines.
Local solicitor, Gerry Halley, whose brother Rufus, also a Columban priest, was shot dead in the Philippines back in 2001, said he was absolutely delighted this latest kidnap had a happy ending.
Gerry said that he had been in touch with members of the Sinnott family offering them support during the kidnap.
“A suggestion that 2,500 armed troops would be sent in to effect the release of Fr. Sinnott was very worrying and I am glad it did not come to that,” said Mr. Halley.
From his own family’s experience he said that nothing moved particularly quickly in the Philippines but having said that he was delighted with the outcome.
Back in August 2001 the Halley family suffered heartbreak when Fr. Rufus (57) was gunned down and killed on his way home to Malabang.
While the latest kidnapping of an Irish born priest brought back sad memories, Gerry Halley said that Rufus had 57 wonderful years and he was “so happy” doing what he did in the Philippines.
