Galway, Ireland – In a move to deepen bilateral cooperation, Barbados Ambassador to Ireland, Cleviston Haynes, recently visited the Marine Institute headquarters in Galway to discuss collaborative opportunities between the two countries in the areas of marine research and sustainable ocean management.
The discussions centered on fostering partnerships to tackle the pressing challenges facing the world’s oceans. Dr. Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute, stressed the importance of knowledge exchange and international collaboration in addressing issues such as climate change, ocean resource sustainability, and marine conservation. He highlighted the role of shared expertise in developing innovative solutions that benefit both nations and contribute to global efforts in ocean stewardship.
Ambassador Haynes welcomed the collaboration as timely, stating that Barbados is currently focused on implementing a comprehensive marine conservation plan. This plan aims to promote the sustainable and equitable use of ocean resources, a critical objective for the island nation, which depends heavily on its maritime environment for economic and social well-being.
The partnership is aligned with the Marine Institute’s Our Shared Ocean programme, an initiative supported by Irish Aid, Ireland’s overseas development programme. This programme prioritizes building research capacity and advancing sustainable practices in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Under its umbrella, recent projects have included seabed mapping and ocean surveys utilizing Ireland’s advanced research vessel fleet, exploring innovative strategies to mitigate coastal erosion and flooding, and fostering collaboration between scientists from various nations to address shared marine challenges.
The Our Shared Ocean programme not only aids in scientific advancement but also empowers developing nations like Barbados to better manage and protect their marine environments. Ambassador Haynes expressed gratitude for Ireland’s continued support, emphasizing that such partnerships are vital in achieving the dual goals of ocean conservation and sustainable development.
The collaboration is expected to pave the way for marine spatial planning initiatives, climate adaptation strategies, and sustainable resource use practices that can serve as a model for other nations. By working together, Barbados and Ireland aim to contribute meaningfully to the global efforts in achieving a healthier, more resilient ocean ecosystem.
