The Isle of Man has received glowing praise for its “thriving” Fairtrade activity after a successful application to have its Fairtrade Island status renewed.
The Island first became a Fairtrade area in July 2008 and is required to reapply for the status every two years to ensure it continues to qualify.
Our application, which is co-ordinated by the One World Centre at St Johns, included reports of the first Fairtrade conference held for primary school children last November, the recently launched Fairtrade website www.iom.selectfairtrade.co.uk, various school and community projects, visits from Fairtrade producers and local church commitment to the cause as well as the growing number of suppliers and outlets.
Fairtrade’s Communities Campaigns Manager Adam Gardner commented: “It has been a huge pleasure to learn of all that has happened since you last renewed Fairtrade status.
“Fairtrade in the Isle of Man is really thriving. There are so many successes which you should be proud of, from setting up the website to the achievement of a Fairtrade Diocese.
“It was amazing to read about the Fairtrade conference and see that pupils from so many schools took part.”
Recognising the scope of the work involved, Adam added, “Please pass on our congratulations and thanks to everyone who has put so much time, energy and creativity into making Fairtrade a part of the area.”
One World Centre Director Rosemary Clarke added “We are delighted to have the Fairtrade Island status maintained for a further two years – and delighted that there is still growing support for the principle of fair trading ensuring that producers are paid a fair price wherever they are in the world.
“The Island’s Fairtrade group has lots more activity planned for the coming two years to keep the momentum going and we’re also very interested in hearing from new Fairtrade suppliers or outlets on the Island. Anyone wishing to get in touch should call 800464 or email info@owciom.org.”
Photo - Rosemary Clarke, One World Centre Director, with the new Fairtrade Island certificate.
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