Auckland’s decision to become a Fair Trade City deserves praise says one of the fair trade movement co-founders Christian World Service.CWS national director, Pauline McKay said that the Christchurch based organisation applauds Auckland’s decision.“Before the terrific support from Auckland after the quakes Southerners were not always keen to say nice things about Auckland but this praise is totally justified,”” says Ms McKay.The compliance steps required to become a Fair Trade City meant that the decision to become one involved much more than just paying lip service to fair trade ideas.“The Fair Trade Councils like Auckland, Wellington, and Dunedin have to put fair trade products into their own operations.“This sends a clear message of commitment and leadership.”The significance of New Zealand’s largest city embracing fair trade just before Fair Trade Fortnight (5 to 20 May) was major.As one of New Zealand’s oldest home grown aid and development agency Christian World Service knew first-hand the major difference fair trade practices could make to producers in developing nations.As a historical co-founder of the fair trade movement CWS was delighted to see the concept “coming of age.” CWS is joining in the celebration of all things fair trade and inviting churches to A Fair Cuppa after services during the week.  Churches have played a significant role in spreading the fair trade message throughout the country.
4 May 2012