By Kodjo Adams
Accra, Oct. 7, GNA – Mr. Joshua Ansah, the Spokesperson for Organised Labour, confirmed during a meeting with members on Monday that the planned strike on Thursday, October 10, will proceed as scheduled.
“We are of the view that what the government has proposed to do does not adequately address our demands, and therefore our notice of strike remains unchanged,” he said after the meeting in Accra.
Organised Labour announced on October 1, 2024, its intention to initiate a strike on October 10 in response to the issues surrounding illegal mining, commonly known as “Galamsey,” in the country.
Following this announcement, President Akufo-Addo met with the leadership of Organised Labour on October 3 to discuss potential solutions to the concerns raised.
Mr. Ansah outlined the results of the meeting with the President, noting that the government said it would collaborate with Organised Labour and relevant stakeholders in the fight illegal mining.
He said that the government planned to act when Parliament reconvenes in October to revoke the Environmental Protection Law, specifically the Mining and Forest Reserve Regulation 2023, LI 2462.
Additionally, the meeting aimed to ensure that the government would strengthen enforcement measures, particularly regarding the prohibition of mining in water bodies and forest areas.
Mr. Ansah stated that the meeting concluded with the decision for the Attorney General to collaborate with the Chief Justice to set up courts dedicated to the prosecution of illegal mining, ensuring swift adjudication of such cases.
Additionally, the outcome included the government’s endorsement of a call for all presidential candidates to sign a pact committing to the fight against illegal mining.
Mr. Abdul-Moomin Gbana, the General Secretary of the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union, stated in an interview that the upcoming strike was timely.
“This is not just a fight for President Akufo-Addo; it’s a fight for all Ghanaian people,” he said, emphasising that the strike would present the ideal opportunity for the government to change the current troubling situation and help get the country back on track.
GNA