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The Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has resolved to initiate a strike action in response to the ongoing illegal mining (galamsey) menace, expressing dissatisfaction with Organised Labour’s decision to call off their nationwide strike without consultation.
TUTAG criticized this unilateral move, stating that it undermined the unity and strength of the labour movement in addressing the environmental devastation caused by galamsey.
Also read: Ghana to launch 5G service on November 1.
In a statement issued on October 10, 2024, TUTAG emphasized the importance of standing together in the fight against galamsey, which has severely impacted Ghana’s environment, especially water bodies and forest reserves. The association expressed its commitment to defending the environment and future generations, despite feeling “betrayed” by the lack of coordination within Organised Labour.
TUTAG has resolved to move forward with a strike, initiating the necessary processes under the Labour Act to invoke their right to strike. Their demands include:
- Revocation of Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462: TUTAG calls for the government to recall Parliament and revoke LI 2462, which governs the granting of mining licenses, particularly in sensitive environmental areas.
- Halt and Withdrawal of Mining Licenses: TUTAG demands a halt in issuing new licenses and the withdrawal of all licenses granted for prospecting and mining in forest reserves and areas surrounding water bodies.
- Ban on Mining in Sensitive Areas: They call for an outright ban on mining activities in forest reserves and around water bodies, with a declaration of a state of emergency in those areas.
- Reclamation of Destroyed Lands: The association urges the government to initiate processes for the reclamation of lands damaged by small-scale mining and galamsey activities.
- Increased Support for the Ghana Water Company: TUTAG demands increased budget allocation to ensure sustainable water supply given the severe damage done to water bodies by illegal mining.
- National Pact for Sustainable Small-Scale Mining: TUTAG also calls for a bipartisan stakeholder consultation to address small-scale mining sustainably and ensure long-term political commitment through a national pact.
TUTAG is urging swift action by the government and stakeholders to meet these demands and protect Ghana’s environment. The association further assured its members of continued support as they move forward with the planned strike.
