Council Vice Chair hosts recent Fairtrade producer visit
30th March 2023
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council was delighted to host a recent visit to the District by Fairtrade producer, Daniel Aguilar.
Daniel, who manages a coffee producing cooperative in Honduras named COCAFELOL, met with the Council’s Vice Chair, Councillor Allan Rainey MBE and other Councillors at the Council Offices in Omagh.
Daniel spoke about his experience of working with Fairtrade and the many benefits which the Fairtrade system of certification has created for the 600 plus members of COCAFELOL as well as the local community.
Daniel explained that the Fairtrade Premium is what sets Fairtrade apart from other certifications. On top of the price farmers and workers receive for their produce or labour, they receive an extra sum of money to invest in improving the quality of their lives. This extra sum of money is called the Fairtrade Premium which is put into a communal fund for workers and farmers to use, as they see fit, to improve their social, economic and environmental conditions.
Commenting on Daniel’s visit, Vice Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Allan Rainey said:
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to welcome Daniel to the District. As a Council we are very proud to support the work of Fairtrade and the District has recently had its Fairtrade status renewed.
In addition, one of the actions within the Council’s Climate Change and Sustainable Development Action Plan is to work with partners to promote and support Fairtrade in the District.
It was fascinating to listen to Daniel as he explained the very real and tangible benefits that Fairtrade brings to his community such as improving educational opportunities for children, improving facilities for workers on farms, and providing assistance with implementing climate friendly and resilient farming techniques.
We can all play our part in supporting communities like Daniel’s directly. When we buy products which bear the Fairtrade logo, we may be paying a little extra, however this additional amount is re-invested back into the local communities where the products are grown.”
Daniel’s visit to the District was facilitated by Fairtrade Ireland as part of their activities to mark Fairtrade Fortnight 2023 which took place from Monday 27 February to Sunday 12 March 2023. For more information on Fairtrade, visit www.fairtrade.org.uk