University gets Fairtrade status

Queen's University is receiving Fairtrade status

Queen's University Belfast has been awarded Fairtrade status during a ceremony on Wednesday.

The Fairtrade system ensures that the producer organisation in the developing world receives a fair price.

The declaration of QUB as a Fairtrade University by the Fairtrade Foundation followed a two-year drive which began with a student campaign.

Queen's took steps such as stocking all its food outlets with Fairtrade products to achieve the status.

Queen's vice-chancellor Professor Peter Gregson said: "This recognition is particularly meaningful because of the strong partnership between Queen's staff and students and the wider community.

"We are delighted to be part of an international effort that is helping thousands of people invest in a better future."

In 2004, almost 2,000 staff and students expressed support for the move towards Fairtrade status via a petition, which was in turn backed by the university's authorities.

The status was presented to Queen's by Tony McMullan, chairman of Oxfam Ireland, at a ceremony in the university's great hall.