Issue - meetings

This report advises Cabinet of recent progress made under the York Fairtrade City initiative and considers the next steps as a Fairtrade City.

The decision has been brought forward in light of the volume of business likely to be undertaken at forthcoming Cabinet meetings.

Resolved:        That Cabinet agree to:

(i)           Confirm City of York Council’s continued desire for Fairtrade City status.

(ii)          Note the suggestions for future work in support of Fairtrade City.

Reason:          To allow the continuation of work to achieve the renewal of Fairtrade City status.

Consideration was given to a report which provided an update on recent progress made under the York Fairtrade initiative. York had received Fairtrade Town status on 3 March 2004 and as there was a requirement to renew this status every two years this was due in November 2014.

In order to become and remain a Fairtrade city it was noted that five goals must be met and details of progress against these goals, since November 2012, together with a two year action plan through to November 2016 were reported. 

Members highlighted that key to the success of the Fairtrade initiative was sharing the message of how fairly traded goods and services contributed to making the world a fairer place, which required the engagement of communities.

The Leader referred to the work undertaken in this area by the Cabinet Member, acknowledging that fair trade was not as high profile as it should be. It was noted that the authority would continue to work with the Fairtrade Forum to promote the fair-trade initiative.

Following further discussion it was

Resolved:  That Cabinet agree to:

(i)           Confirm City of York Council’s continued desire for Fairtrade City status.

(ii)          Note the suggestions for future work in support of Fairtrade City. ^1.

Reason:      To allow the continuation of work to achieve the renewal of Fairtrade City status.