Alliance backs launch of Fairtrade clothing

10.59.46am GMT Wed 8th Nov 2006

Castlereagh Alliance Councillor, Michael Long

Alliance Vice Chair and Castlereagh Councillor Michael Long has welcomed Sainsbury's launch of a fairtrade clothing range. The range will consist of 22 new styles for men women and children and will be made from Fairtrade certified cotton. He also stated that the Castlereagh Alliance team are trying to get Dundonald designated as a Fairtrade village.

Cllr Michael Long said, "I welcome the news that Sainsbury's are launching a fairtrade clothing range. The money generated by this range will go to small-scale cotton farmers in Mali and Cameroon.

"I would strongly encourage everyone to buy Fairtrade products where possible because the money goes straight to producers. This cash helps provide a fair deal for farmers and businesses in developing countries.

"Alliance has consistently campaigned to get Castlereagh Borough Council to use more Fairtrade products, and we brought a motion to council in early 2005 demanding this measure.

"We are also trying to get Dundonald designated as a Fairtrade village, in order to further promote these products in this area. Alliance strongly supports Fairtrade products because the money generated helps promote equality and provide sustainable growth in developing countries."

ENDS