Bury renews its Fairtrade status

Bury has renewed its Fairtrade Borough status for a further two years following its ongoing commitment to promoting Fairtrade principles.

The achievement was celebrated with a reception and a Fairtrade afternoon tea for local supporters in the Mayor’s Parlour at the invitation of the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Mike Connolly.

Bury was first awarded Fairtrade status in 2011, in recognition of the strong support for Fairtrade throughout the borough.

Fairtrade helps small-scale farmers earn stable incomes, have long term contracts with companies, and qualify for the Fairtrade Premium, which they invest in projects that benefit their businesses or communities.

The Fairtrade mark, now the world’s most widely recognised ethical mark, independently certifies that products meet rigorous economic, social and environments standards.

Bernard Emblem, chair of the local Fairtrade Steering Group, added: “This prestigious award recognises the council’s high ethical standards, Bury’s growing commitment to ethical trading, and the work done in local schools and places of worship. We urge anyone or any organisation with an interest in an ethical approach to trade to get in touch and help us work towards a fairer world.”

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “Fair Trade is a system where people are paid fairly for the goods they produce and the focus is on environmental sustainability. We are delighted to work with Bury Fairtrade Group to support initiatives such as Fair Trade Fortnight and in helping to raise the profile of Fairtrade across the borough.”

Both local MPs have offered their congratulations to the Bury Fairtrade Group.

David Nuttall, MP for Bury North, said: “In the five years since Bury was awarded Fairtrade status by the Fairtrade Foundation, many more organisations have chosen to use Fairtrade products. Many people value the wider availability of Fairtrade produce and appreciate the fact it is now much easier to purchase Fairtrade items in shops than it used to be.”

And Ivan Lewis, MP for Bury South, said: “Fair trade is an essential component to creating a fairer world for all its inhabitants. One example is ensuring that local farmers get paid a fair price for their produce so they and their families are alleviated from the effects of poverty. This is something that all Bury residents can be proud of."

Adam Gardner from the Fairtrade Foundation added: “We’re very pleased that Bury has renewed its status and laid out exciting goals to take Fairtrade further. Thanks to the ongoing support of the public and campaigners, an increasing number of farmers in developing countries are now selling their products on Fairtrade terms, giving them a chance to trade their way out of poverty.”

To support the Fairtrade campaign in Bury, search for Bury Fairtrade online or email the steering group via bjemblem@yahoo.co.uk

ENDS

Press release issued: 9 December 2016.

Picture: Fairtrade renewed – in the mayor’s parlour are (from left) Laura Chepner (proprietor of Lolo’s Restaurant, Ramsbottom); Cllr Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council; Bernard Emblem, chair of Bury Fairtrade Group; Cllr Mike Connolly, the Mayor of Bury; and Rachael Kennedy (proprietor of Gronn Hairdresser, Bury).