COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, February 08, 2021

MOTION NO.  2

MOTION: Councillor E. O'Brien

Noting the success of this Council's adoption of Clondalkin as a Fairtrade town, this Council agrees to explore the expansion of the idea to create Ireland's first Fair Trade County and notes the ongoing endeavours of Clonburris National School in this regard

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.