IN PICTURES: Mid Ulster schools in Fairtrade Fortnight

The event organised by Mid Ulster District Council, took place at the Hill of The O’Neill, Dungannon and focused on where food comes from, the effort it takes to grow, the concept of Fairtrade and making ethical decisions when shopping.

Fairtrade Fortnight helps to create awareness among local people about the farmers in the Third World who are struggling to meet their needs through agriculture. Fairtrade means a decent and justified price is paid for foods such as tea, coffee, cocoa and bananas, matching the cost of production to bring farmers a sustainable income.

At the event the children enjoyed practical activities including making pomander balls with Fairtrade cloves, sowing peas and planting seed potatoes with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV).

Speaking at the event, Chair of the Council, Councillor Sean McPeake said: “Mid Ulster District Council is committed to supporting the Fairtrade campaign and actively promotes the purchase of products with the Fairtrade Mark including the use of Fairtrade coffee, tea and sugar at all internal meetings.

“Activities during Fairtrade Fortnight are a great way to highlight the benefits of supporting Fairtrade and I would encourage all schools and indeed the wider community to get involved and help us achieve Fairtrade status for the district.”

Schools who attended the event were Ballylifford PS, Knockloughrim PS, St Patrick’s (Dungannon) PS, Tobermore PS, Castledawson PS, Coagh PS and Carntall PS. Each school has also organised a range of activities in their schools such as Fairtrade bake sales, schools’ events and coffee mornings.

For more information on Fairtrade contact Yvonne Zellmann, Sustainability Officer, on 03000 132 132 or email [email protected].