Belfast's Fairtrade Status Renewed

Belfast is celebrating having had its dual status as a 'Fairtrade City' renewed for a further two years, to November 2013.

To mark the event, a reception was held in the City Hall to commemorate the achievements of the Fairtrade Belfast Committee - a voluntary organisation, comprised of representatives from local and foreign government, non-governmental organisations, educational institutions, charities, ethnic minority sector, supermarkets, retailers, business and individuals.

Belfast was the first place to attain dual Fairtrade accreditation - gaining Fairtrade City status in 2005 from the UK Fairtrade Foundation and then in 2006 from Fairtrade Ireland.

The Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Niall Ó Donnghaile commented on the renewal:

"On behalf of the people of Belfast, I would like to commend the dedicated voluntary work of the committee and maintaining Belfast`s status as a Fairtrade City for all these years. Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world."

By getting companies to pay fair prices, Fairtrade addresses the injustices of modern trade, which can penalise the poorest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have greater control over their own lives.

Dr Christopher Stange, Chairman of Fairtrade Belfast added: "We can all play our part by choosing the Fairtrade option, looking for the Fairtrade certification mark, when out shopping. Fairtrade is for developing world farmers, producing commodities we do not produce in Northern Ireland but readily consume. Therefore, due to their vulnerability, it is vital to ensure they are receiving a fair price for their efforts, which is guaranteed through Fairtrade."

Fairtrade Belfast currently is finalizing plans for events during Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from February 27 – March 11.

(GK)