Inverclyde could become Fairtrade
Published 22 Jun 2012 16:30
INVERCLYDE could be recognised as a Fairtrade area within the next 18 months.
The council has agreed to create a steering group to promote and publicise the cause, aiming to show that all the key players across Inverclyde are committed to supporting Fairtrade.
Council leader Councillor Stephen McCabe said: "Becoming a Fairtrade Zone is not a one-off event or a tick-box exercise - it is a long-term commitment which takes time, resources and co-operation to achieve.
"Key to our success will be getting as many partners involved."
Fairtrade guarantees a better deal for third world producers who get fair wages, good working conditions and help with the development of products and marketing.
A small number of schools in Inverclyde have already achieved Fairtrade school status, with more working towards meeting the criteria, while a small number of council facilities already use Fairtrade products.
Fairtrade experts in neighbouring councils are helping Inverclyde's efforts to join them in the scheme.
Councillor McCabe added: "We will try to tap into local expertise and enthusiasm wherever possible and continue to drive forward the Fairtrade agenda."
This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 22 Jun 12
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