Irish government officials are concerned that any release of an Irish priest abducted by suspected Muslim extremists could be jeopardised by claims that a ransom was paid for the safe return of aid worker Sharon Commins.

It was reported over the weekend that €100,000 was spent by the Sudanese government on costs associated with freeing the kidnapped Goal worker and her Ugandan colleague Hilda Kawuki.

Goal and the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs have strongly denied a ransom was paid. However, the department would not comment on the claims that the Sudanese spent €100,000 on costs such as staff, cars and petrol.

There is concern in official circles that the idea the Irish government paid, or agreed with another state paying, a ransom could have a disastrous effect on efforts to free Fr Michael Sinnott, the 79-year-old Columban Missionary held captive in the Philippines.