NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – The Bahamas has praised Ireland for its contribution to the development of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) saying it is also playing a pivotal role in the island’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said the establishment of an Irish consulate here will further deepen diplomatic relations between the countries since they established in 2007. Mitchell said Ireland had provided ES$2.5 million in addition to its contribution to the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility and that Dublin had also provided assistance to The Bahamas even before the two countries established diplomatic relations.