Council welcomes first ambassador of Barbados to Ireland
Jacqui McNabb, Head of Enterprise, Economic Development and Tourism, Kildare County Council, Mr Shane Thomas, Investment Executive, Invest Barbados, Ambassador of Barbados to Ireland, His Excellency Cleviston Haynes, The Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Councillor Carmel Kelly and Annette Aspell, Deputy Chief Executive, Kildare County Council.
KILDARE County Council welcomed a historic diplomatic visit as His Excellency Cleviston Haynes the first Ambassador of Barbados to Ireland, paid an official visit to Áras Chill Dara.
Ambassador Haynes, who represents the newly established Embassy of Barbados in Ireland – opened in June 2024 – was accompanied by Mr Shane Thomas, Investment Executive with Invest Barbados.
The delegation was warmly received by the Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, cllr Carmel Kelly, along with Annette Aspell, Deputy Chief Executive of Kildare County Council, and Jacqui McNabb, Head of Enterprise, Economic Development and Tourism.
During the meeting, Ambassador Haynes introduced the vision and mission of the Barbados Embassy in Ireland, highlighting the island nation’s interest in strengthening ties with Irish counties, including Kildare.
The discussions touched on areas of mutual interest, including tourism opportunities and the potential for increased cooperation in Climate Action and renewable energy.
Speaking after the meeting, cllr Carmel Kelly said:
“It was our distinct honour to welcome His Excellency Cleviston Haynes to Kildare County Council today. Barbados and Ireland have a shared history dating back to the 1600s and Irish culture and surnames can still be found throughout the island.”
“Today’s meeting has placed us on the path to developing a deeper bond between our countries and we look forward to fostering that relationship.”
