Barbados’ Ambassador to Ireland, Cleviston Haynes (left) and Chief Executive Officer, Marine Institute of Ireland, Dr. Rick Officer, signing the MOU in the area of maritime research, recently. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade)
Barbados and Ireland have taken another step toward strengthening cooperation through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in maritime research.
In brief remarks, before signing the MOU on behalf of the Coastal Zone Management Unit (CZMU), Ambassador for Barbados to Ireland, Cleviston Haynes, thanked the Chief Executive Officer, Marine Institute of Ireland, Dr. Rick Officer, for the institution’s readiness to conduct a bathymetric survey of Barbados’ ocean floor.
The survey will assess the water depth around Barbados, map underwater features, evaluate the seafloor for potential resources, and identify the diverse fish species and marine life that make up the island’s marine ecosystem.
The data gathered will guide policymakers and stakeholders in the preparation of a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) for the sustainable management of the valuable resources within Barbados’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The first phase of the mapping project is scheduled for August to September 2025, focusing on key areas in the north-eastern and southern regions of the EEZ. The survey is expected to span approximately five to seven years.
The framework of the agreement provides for the participation and engagement of key personnel from the CZMU with the Institute’s team of scientists.
Based in Galway, the Marine Institute is Ireland’s leading agency for marine research. It plays an important role in advising the government on marine policy, environmental protection, and sustainable resource management. The Institute conducts world-class scientific research to support the sustainable development of Ireland’s marine resources, focusing on areas such as marine biodiversity, oceanography, conservation, fisheries, and climate change.
In September 2022, Barbados finalised a US$150 million transaction in its commitment to a Debt-for-Nature Swap partnership with the Nature Conservancy and the Inter-American Development Bank. Funds from the agreement are being utilised to support the preparation of the Marine Spatial Plan.
Barbados established diplomatic relations with Ireland on May 3, 2001.
Source: https://gisbarbados.gov.bb/blog/barbados-signs-mou-with-marine-institute-of-ireland/
Author: BGIS
