Oxfam welcomes new commitment on trade

ONE of the more unsung elements of the programme for government is a commitment to purchasing fairtrade goods.

Oxfam welcomes that commitment to lead the way in supporting people in the developing world.

However, these achievements should not overshadow the silence of the Government regarding Ireland’s unfair trade policies with the developing world.

Ireland, as a member of the EU, is currently pressing many of the very poorest countries into hugely unfair trade agreements. These so-called economic partnership agreements threaten livelihoods, government services and the ability of poor countries to manage their economies into the future.

Purchasing goods with the Fairtrade Mark is highly valuable, but needs to be backed up by a genuine commitment to trade fairly with those whom we profess to support.

Colin Roche

Policy and Advocacy

Coordinator

Oxfam Ireland

9 Burgh Quay

Dublin 2