Ireland has formally accredited a new ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), reinforcing diplomatic ties between Dublin and the 15-member regional bloc.
During a virtual ceremony on February 12, Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett received the Letter of Credence from His Excellency Martin Gallagher, officially recognising him as Ireland’s Ambassador to CARICOM.
Dr. Barnett described the appointment as a reflection of the shared values and continued cooperation between Ireland and the Caribbean Community. She noted that the partnership has been strengthened through political engagement, collaboration under CARICOM-European Union frameworks, and joint work within the United Nations system.
Addressing regional security concerns, the Secretary-General acknowledged Ireland’s support for international stabilisation efforts in Haiti. “As the UN’s Gang Suppression Force (GSF) works alongside the Haitian National Police to neutralise the threats that have long hindered the democratic process in Haiti, Ireland’s role as a partner in peacebuilding remains vital. We thank Ireland for supporting this mission, which is so important for Haiti and, by extension, for our Region as a whole,” she said.
Dr. Barnett also highlighted CARICOM’s advocacy for reform of the international financial architecture, including support for the Bridgetown Initiative, which seeks improved access to climate and development financing for vulnerable states. She emphasised the importance of advancing the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) to ensure Small Island and Low-Lying Coastal Developing States can access concessional financing based on vulnerability rather than income classification alone.
Reaffirming the region’s climate priorities, she said CARICOM continues to press for global action to limit temperature increases to 1.5°C and values cooperation from partners such as Ireland in achieving that objective.
Ambassador Gallagher, in his remarks, underscored Ireland’s commitment to deepening ties with the Caribbean.
“Since the establishment of relations with CARICOM in 2019, we have worked together with real success to build closer and deeper ties. As Ambassador, I will continue this important work, strengthening existing links and fostering new partnerships,” he said.
He referenced Ireland’s Fellowship Programme, through which Caribbean students and young professionals have pursued academic and professional training in Ireland, expressing hope that participation will expand in the coming years.
Gallagher also indicated interest in enhancing economic engagement, noting that Ireland will host the Global Horizons Trade Forum for Latin America and the Caribbean later this year and signalling support for strong CARICOM participation.
The accreditation marks the latest step in expanding diplomatic and development cooperation between Ireland and the Caribbean Community.
