Members of Macclesfield Fairtrade Town Group were joined recently by local MP, David Rutley, for the annual Fairtrade Coffee morning at Macclesfield Library.
Thanks to the energy and commitment of Macclesfield Fairtrade Town Group, Macclesfield has officially been a Fairtrade town since 2006. The well-attended coffee morning provided a valuable opportunity to highlight the positive impact of purchasing Fairtrade products on people in developing countries, helping to ensure that growers and farmers receive a fair price for their produce, supporting sustainable economic development and the livelihoods of farmers.
The event also featured a special guest, Marcial Quintero, a member of Coobana, a Fairtrade banana co-operative in Panama. Marcial explained more to the attendees about how Fairtrade saved Coobana from bankruptcy; provided good housing, sanitation and education for local communities in Panama; and is even undertaking important wildlife conservation work by rescuing turtles.
The coffee morning was just one of a number of events taking place across Macclesfield, as part of Fairtrade Fortnight. Another highlight was an exhibition at Macclesfield Library of posters created by local schoolchildren. David was invited to present the prize for the winning entry in the exhibition, awarded to Darcey Pettener, who attends Prestbury Primary School.
Macclesfield Fairtrade Town Group was an initiative begun in 2003 by a local residents involved with the organisation from Global Justice Now (then known as the World Development Movement), Justice and Peace, Traidcraft and a number of Churches in Macclesfield, in order to raise awareness of Fairtrade and promote the use of Fairtrade products within the town.
It is actively supported by Macclesfield Town Council. Anyone interested in joining the Group can express an interest by contacting info@macclesfieldfairtrade.org.uk
Speaking after the event, David said, "As this well-attended event demonstrates, Macclesfield Fairtrade Town Group continues to go from strength to strength. It was a privilege to meet Marcial Quintero and to learn more from him about the positive impact of fairtrade practices on his community. I am pleased that Macclesfield continues to be an active Fairtrade Town, and I encourage local residents to take part in future Fairtrade initiatives wherever possible.”