Synod passes Motion on Fairtrade
This afternoon Synod debated Motion No 3 which requests the use on all church premises, where possible, products that comply with Fairtrade objectives. Synod was also asked to further show its commitment to these objectives by actively encouraging the promotion of Fairtrade.
Proposing this Motion, the Very Revd Michael Burrows (Cork) said that this motion has the potential to make a real difference, particularly on a local level.
Revd Olive Donohoe (Meath) seconded the Motion, saying that all trade should be fair. Acknowledging that the consumer is often forced to pay a premium on Fair Trade products, Revd Donohoe assured the Synod that this premium was the fair price for the product. By willingly paying that premium in an honest and fair way – and thus preventing a child in the developing world from paying this premium - then we are showing that we are willing to pay the cost of discipleship. “It is a measure of love,” she said.
Mr Geoffrey McMaster (Glendalough) embraced the motion, urging the Synod to stand behind the poor of the world. They are not asking for handouts, he said, but are working to make things better for themselves.
While supporting the Motion, the Bishop of Cork, the Rt Revd Paul Colton, added a cautionary note, asking for consistency in our actions and for Synod to consider the implications for the local economy.
Motion No 3 was passed.