Irish Red Cross Chairman calls for release of Iraqi woman - Margaret Hassan

Noting that Ms Hassan is just the latest in a number of Iraqi citizens kidnapped within the country, Mr Andrews also called on the Occupying Powers to uphold their duties in accordance with the Geneva Conventions and ensure greater security for the civilian population. He has been in contact with the International Committee of the Red Cross in relation to this matter.

However, he stressed that the onus is now on the kidnappers to free Ms Hassan and all the other Iraqi and non-Iraqi people whom they are holding.

"Ms Hassan was born in Dublin and has since spent most of her life in Iraq, where she has devoted herself to working for an end to the suffering of Iraqi people, particularly during the sanctions era. I supported her position and call upon the kidnappers to free this woman so that she can continue to save the lives of ordinary Iraqis," stated Mr Andrews.

Ends.