COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, February 08, 2021

MOTION NO. 11

MOTION: Councillor Peter Kavanagh

This council congratulates Clonburris National School on their efforts to develop fair trade in the county and agrees to follow Clondalkin's example as a Fairtrade Town in making South Dublin a Fairtrade County.

REPORT:

As indicated in previous reports on the Fairtrade movement the heart of this concept is the role of local business and community involvement, particularly at Town level. Chambers of Commerce are also referenced in the Fairtrade Ireland guidance.

It would appear that the achievement of Fairtrade status involves a series of steps which is rooted in the 'bottom up' approach, including bringing together local traders, community groups and other interested parties in a Fairtrade group. While the promotion of the selling of Fairtrade goods is the most public of activities arising from this proposal, this needs to be based on the foundation of a local Fairtrade group (including schools, young people, churches, local businesses and local action groups), that promotes and seeks to persuade both the wider community and traders of the merits of pursuing Fairtrade status.

The core of Fairtrade is the promotion of business operating fair trade retailing coupled with community involvement at a local level.

Having noted the above, should the Motion be passed contact will be made with Fairtrade Ireland and the South Dublin Chamber in terms of meeting the requirements set out in the Fairtrade Ireland guidance.