Take a break and think of Fair Trade

Date: 
Monday, 19 February, 2018


People are being urged to show support for food-growers in developing countries as part of this year's Fairtrade Fortnight campaign - which runs from 26 February to 11 March 2018.

The Council is once again working with East Dunbartonshire Fair Trade Steering Group and a range of local organisations to raise awareness.

This year's theme is 'come on in' and people are being invited to find out more about how they can help.

Local schools will also be involved, with special Fair Trade menus on offer.

In addition, a Fair Trade Breakfast is being held on Saturday 10 March from 9.30am-11am at Stirling Hall, Milton of Campsie Parish Church. All welcome - £2 for adults, £1 for children and £5 for family.

East Dunbartonshire was one of the first areas in Scotland to gain Fairtrade Zone status in 2007 and has held the accolade continually since then.

The Council works closely with East Dunbartonshire Fair Trade Steering Group, as well as Fairtrade Town groups in Lenzie, Bearsden and Milngavie.

It also works with enterprises such as Gavin's Mill shop and café in Milngavie and Silver Birch (Scotland) Ltd in Milton of Campsie, as well as church groups.

Thomas Glen, the Council's Depute Chief Executive - Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets, said, "We hope as many people as possible can spare time to support Fairtrade Fortnight again this year.

"The Council is committed to the ethos and values of Fair Trade, and we will continue to work with local communities, organisations and traders on this important issue."

The Council passed a resolution in November 2016 supporting Fair Trade locally - including a pledge to use such goods wherever possible when catering for meetings and functions.

East Dunbartonshire Fair Trade Steering Group Co-convenor Angela Oakley said, "Fairtrade Fortnight is an opportunity for campaigners, businesses, schools and places of worship to show their support for the farmers and workers who grow our food in developing countries.

"Well done to the many individuals, retailers, workplaces, churches, nurseries, schools and local community groups who work tirelessly in support of Fair Trade - helping to make a direct difference to people's lives around the world."

The Steering Group has pioneered a number of initiatives locally with the Council, such as the Fairtrade Cotton Schoolwear Campaign, the nurseries campaign and themed menus in schools - which have been rolled out nationally.

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