The religious congregation of captive Irish priest Fr. Michael Sinnott said they have not entered into any negotiation for his release nor are they privy to any negotiation being done by the government or any other group.

In an interview for the official news website for the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, Mission Society of St. Columban regional superior, Fr. Patrick O’ Donoghue said he is also unaware of any other negotiators for the release of the priest. “Nor do I know of anyone else being in negotiation with those who are holding Fr. Mick,” he said reacting to reports that negotiations for the release of Fr. Sinnott has already begun.

Fr. O’ Donoghue added that he is aware “that the MILF have offered to help to secure the release of Fr. Sinnott but maintained that if there are negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, he is not privy to them.”

The congregation leader said that if negotiations are really being done and “if it would lead to Fr. Sinnott’s speedy release, then it would be welcomed.”

Fr. Sinnott was abducted from the Columban residence in Pagadian City last October 11 while taking a walk after dinner. “Whoever is holding Fr. Sinnott will consider his age, his health and the esteem in which he is held by so many people, and not detain him any longer,” Fr. O’ Donoghue added. The religious superior reiterated his call to the abductors of the Irish Missionary to show compassion and release Fr. Sinnott soon.