Accra, Nov. 10, GNA – The Environmental Service Providers Association (ESPA) has urged members to continue normal operations as leadership worked with the Government to reach a firm and mutually beneficial resolution of their challenges.
“ESPA appreciates the patience and cooperation of all service providers who continue to deliver essential sanitation services under the difficult circumstances,” a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said.
“We remain confident that our continued dialogue with the government will yield the necessary outcomes to stabilise the sector and safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of workers and the environment,” said the statement, signed by Ama Ofori Antwi, the Executive Secretary.
Members of the Association had threatened to go on strike from Friday, November 7, over non-payment of arrears for services provided.
They said they had borrowed from banks, creditors, suppliers, and other partners to sustain operations over the years but found themselves in a difficult position as the government was unable to expedite the release of all pending payments.
The leadership of the Association, however, appealed to members to suspend the strike following a dialogue with Mr Ibrahim Ahmed, the Minister of Local Govemment and Religious Affairs, towards resolving the outstanding payment challenges.
“The Minister had assured us of the government’s commitment to processing and settling the arrears owed to service providers within the shortest possible time,” the statement said.
It encouraged members to stay united and refrain from actions that may disrupt waste collection and sanitation services while negotiations were ongoing.
“The ESPA reaffirms its unreserved commitment to ensuring that the interest of every member is protected and Ghana’s waste management infrastructure continues to function efficiently for the public good,” it said.
The Association is a coalition of private waste management companies in Ghana, working in partnership with government and local authorities to promote efficient, sustainable, and inclusive environmental services for all.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe