Waterford awarded status of Fairtrade city

Waterford is the first Irish city to be granted Fairtrade status by Fairtrade Mark Ireland.

The Irish member of Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International announced Waterford's fulfilment of the criteria required to become a Fairtrade City in the Waterford Institute of Technology yesterday.

The Fairtrade Foundation comprises 19 organisations which monitor imports from developing countries.

Waterford was awarded the status following its substantial commitment to the promotion and uptake of Fairtrade foods, both at local authority level and in its businesses.

Trading standards for licensees using the Fairtrade mark on their products ensure that traders pay a price to Third World producers that covers the costs of sustainable production and living.

Other standards sought by Fairtrade include the right of workers to a decent wage; to join a trade union; abolition of child or forced labour; provision of good housing; and a minimum of safety and environmental standards.

News of the award emerges after more than a year of campaigning by the Waterford Fairtrade City Action Group.

Two suppliers in the city, including 14 shops and supermarkets, stock Fairtrade products, while seven cafes and catering outlets serve Fairtrade tea and coffee. Sixteen other businesses have adopted Fairtrade procurement policies.

Lucy Whittle, co-ordinator of the Waterford Fairtrade City Action Group, said she was delighted with the hard work and effort from all parties involved. "We urge the people of Waterford to get behind Fairtrade businesses and to support them."

Ms Whittle told The Irish Times that a significant number of Waterford schools were also awarded Fairtrade schools status this year. This initiative was implemented through curriculum subjects, including specific projects overseen by the Waterford One World Centre.

Cork city, Kilkenny city and Kinsale are also to be granted Fairtrade status. Clonakilty became Ireland's first Fairtrade town in 2003. The Fairtrade mark can be found on products ranging from coffee, tea and chocolate to fruit, snacks and biscuits.

In September 2004, there were 422 Fairtrade certified groups in 49 producer countries.