Newry Mourne and Down District Council has been named as a Fairtrade District after years of working with local schools, colleges and community groups.
The award of Fairtrade district status is a dual accreditation from both the Fairtrade Foundation UK and Fairtrade Ireland and covers the entire Newry Mourne and Down district.
Council Chairman Councillor Mark Murnin, who received the official certificate confirming the status at a recent meeting of the Fairtrade Steering Committee, said: “I am delighted that we have been awarded Fairtrade district status.
“The Council and the Fairtrade Steering Committee have made great efforts to increase the number of outlets which provide Fairtrade options locally and encourage more and more people to choose Fairtrade.
“Fairtrade is a simple way to make a difference to the lives of the people who grow the things we love. It provides better prices, decent working conditions, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world and we are proud that our district is taking a lead in promoting this.”
It is easy to see if a shop offers Fairtrade products—all products will be branded with a distinctive mark and many shops and cafes display a ‘We stock Fairtrade’ sticker or poster in their premises.
Chairman of the Fairtrade Steering Committee, Councillor Harry Harvey said: “I would encourage all residents to make every effort to include some Fairtrade products in their shopping basket or ask for Fairtrade tea or coffee when visiting the district’s many local cafes and restaurants. The simple action of choosing products bearing the Fairtrade mark can go a long way to help improve the livelihoods and working conditions of people living in developing countries.”
The district’s Fairtrade steering committee will continue to promote Fairtrade during the coming year. There are plans to arrange special activities to highlight Fairtrade Fortnight which takes place between the 25 February and 10 March 2019.
