Newcastle could be Fair Trade town

Newcastle could be Fair Trade town

15 February 2012 - by DAVID TELFORD

AMBITIOUS plans will be outlined at the end of the month seeking support for the designation of Newcastle as a Fairtrade town.

Details of the new initiative will be outlined during a public meeting at the Newcastle Centre on February 28 when it is hoped to form a new steering committee.

One of the people behind the proposal wants shoppers, businesses, schools, churches and community groups and Down Council to weigh in with their support and play a key role to help tackle poverty by enabling disadvantaged producers from poor countries to receive a better deal.

Campaign co-ordinator Patrick Corrigan explained Fairtrade is about decent working conditions, local sustainability and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world.

“This is a chance for Newcastle to be part of this global movement,” he declared.

“Dozens of towns across Ireland and the UK have now become Fairtrade towns and experience there has shown that working towards Fairtrade Town status can bring together neighbours, groups, the local council and businesses towards a common goal and a shared achievement that everyone can celebrate.”

Mr. Corrigan said becoming a Fairtrade Town can benefit businesses in

Newcastle by promoting shopping which benefits producers in the developing world.

He said this is achieved by ensuring they get a decent price for their produce which benefits local people by generating community spirit behind a great project.

Mr. Corrigan claimed that by choosing to support Fairtrade in this way, Newcastle can add its voice to demands for a trade system that puts people at the heart of the transaction.

He explained that to achieve Fairtrade Town status, Newcastle would have to fulfil a range of criteria

set down by the Fairtrade Foundation, such as the number of shops and catering outlets stocking fair trade products and the amount of support given by the local community.

“Community organisations, faith groups, businesses, schools and individuals all contribute to making their area a Fairtrade Town by pledging to do what they can to support fair trade,” said Mr. Corrigan.

He explained that at the forthcoming meeting, which starts at 7.30pm, there will be a presentation, question and answer session, a short film, some sample Fairtrade produce, information materials and a resolution to establish a steering group to take the initiative forward.