Students champion Fairtrade with advocacy

STUDENTS from across Limerick have participated in the Fairbuary 2025 school poster competition and are taking an avid interest in the concept of Fairtrade.

Together with those undertaking the Global Citizenship themes of the An Taisce Green Schools programme, they're adding their voices to demands for a global trade system that puts people, not profit, at the heart of what we place in our shopping baskets.

As part of the awareness programme, the students created posters centred on the Fairtrade message of promoting fair trading practices between Ireland and developing countries.

Mishaal Khan, a student from Castletroy College, took home the 1st prize, while Laoise Ní Riain from An Mhodhscoil, O’Connell Avenue, secured 2nd place. Third prize went to Destiny Iqwal, from Castletroy College.

The students visited Limerick City and County Council Headquarters, Merchant's Quay on February 27 to help promote the Fairtrade message.

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Mayor of Limerick, John Moran who attended the prize giving ceremony congratulated all the participants, saying:

“The work of the Fairtrade movement is more important than ever as we strive to reduce poverty and achieve a more just global trade network. The enthusiasm and dedication of our youth in advocating for Fairtrade is truly remarkable. All the participants and winners have demonstrated exceptional understanding of the issue and I congratulate them on their efforts and achievements.”

Dolores O’Meara, Chairperson of the Limerick Fairtrade City Group, emphasised the importance of consumer support for Fairtrade products, saying:

“In a world where the richest 1% own 50% of the world’s wealth, it is more important than ever that we, the consumers, support the farmers in the developing world who produce our tea, coffee, cocoa, bananas, and many other food items.”

Fairtrade Limerick City Committee is a volunteer group that promotes Fairtrade in Limerick. Limerick became a Fairtrade City in 2005 and renewed this status in 2015. Committees in Newcastle West, Adare, and Bruff are also working towards Fairtrade town status.