Hooray! Monash City Council has gone Fairtrade!
Monash City Council has chosen to support a fair deal for disadvantaged producers in developing countries and is calling for nominations for those who wish to be part of Monash’s ‘Fair Trade Steering Group’.
Following a proposal by Deputy Mayor, Charlotte Baines on 28 October last year, Council agreed to switch to products that do not promote poor conditions in developing countries, but instead use Fair Trade products, specifically tea, coffee and chocolate.“The Fair Trade movement is changing the lives of millions of farmers, workers and their families. I am very proud that the City of Monash has agreed to be part of this very worthy international movement,” said Cr Baines.
Last week, Council agreed to establish a Fair Trade Steering Group, comprising of eight voluntary members to help promote the benefits of Fair Trade to the community and local businesses.
“We would particularly like to encourage residents and representatives from community organisations and businesses to submit an expression of interest in helping us to be a leader in social responsibility,” said Cr Baines.
In the coming months, Council will be developing new initiatives for businesses, schools and local groups to encourage broader community support for ‘Fair Trade’ products.
For further information or to receive a copy of the Fair Trade Steering Group’s Terms of Reference, please contact Priya Prasad on 9518 3577 or email priyap@monash.vic.gov.au.
Source – “http://monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2009/bulletin-24feb09p4.htm“
