|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Organised labour in Ghana, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has issued a stern ultimatum to the government, demanding immediate and decisive action against illegal small-scale mining, known as “galamsey.”
The TUC has warned that if the government fails to address the ongoing environmental devastation caused by galamsey, they will initiate a nationwide strike by the end of September.
Also read : Black stars’ Next Home Game to be played at Neutral Venue as CAF bans Baba Yara Stadium
In a statement released by TUC Secretary General Dr. Yaw Baah, the group called for urgent measures to combat the galamsey crisis, including the declaration of a state of emergency in affected areas.
The TUC also demanded an immediate halt to all mining activities in forest reserves, the establishment of special courts to prosecute offenders, and the deployment of the military to dismantle illegal mining equipment. These actions, they argue, are necessary to save the country’s water bodies, farmlands, and forests from further destruction.
The TUC’s call comes in the wake of growing frustration over the government’s perceived inaction in tackling illegal mining. They noted that despite previous pledges and initiatives, the galamsey problem persists, leading to widespread environmental degradation and threatening the livelihoods of many communities.
The union warned that the failure to act decisively would leave them with no choice but to withdraw their labour in protest. With the September deadline approaching, the TUC has intensified pressure on the government to prioritize the fight against illegal mining.
The union stressed that the strike would be a last resort, but one they are prepared to undertake if the government does not meet their demands.
Full statement below:
