Organized Labour has announced the suspension of its planned strike action in response to the harmful effects of illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” in Ghana. This decision follows a communiqué from President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, detailing robust measures to combat the illegal mining menace.
In their latest statement, Organized Labour urged all member organizations to halt their strike plans and support the President’s directives aimed at addressing the environmental and economic devastation caused by galamsey.
Initial Strike Plans Due to Unmet Expectations
Initially, the labour group had expressed dissatisfaction with the outcomes of a previous meeting held on October 7, 2024, with government officials, including the President. They believed the measures presented at that time were insufficient to effectively curb illegal mining activities, which prompted them to reaffirm their intention to embark on industrial action.
President’s New Actions Address Concerns
However, just hours before the planned strike was set to commence, President Akufo-Addo announced decisive steps to tackle galamsey. These actions include a complete suspension of mining activities in forest reserves and the deployment of military personnel to illegal mining sites under the ongoing “Operation Halt.”
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The President’s bold measures, which were communicated by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Presidency, also included a call for a National Pact on illegal mining. This pact urges all presidential candidates and political parties to commit to the fight against galamsey as part of their election pledges.
A United Front Against Galamsey
In light of these developments, Organized Labour is convinced by the President’s approach and has called off its strike action, effective October 10, 2024. The group has pledged to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the success of efforts aimed at eradicating illegal mining.
Organized Labour’s decision to support the President’s initiatives marks a significant moment of unity in the fight against one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental and social challenges
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