Organized Labour Declares Nationwide Strike Over Illegal Mining: Workers Urged to Stay Home from October 10
Introduction
Organized Labour has declared a nationwide strike starting from October 10, 2024, in response to the government’s failure to address the growing issue of illegal mining, commonly referred to as "galamsey." The decision was reached following an emergency meeting held on October 2, 2024, where union representatives voiced their dissatisfaction with the government’s inaction on the matter.
Government’s Inaction on Galamsey
Illegal mining, or galamsey, has long been a significant concern in Ghana due to its devastating impact on the environment and its threat to the livelihoods of many communities. Organized Labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), had previously issued an ultimatum, giving the government until the end of September to take decisive action against these illegal activities. Despite this deadline, the unions contend that the government has made little progress, prompting the call for a nationwide strike.
Emergency Meeting and Decision
At the emergency meeting on October 2, 2024, union leaders reviewed the government's response, or lack thereof, to their demands. Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the TUC, expressed the union’s disappointment, stating that the government had failed to take the necessary steps to curb illegal mining. "Following the expiration of our deadline, and the failure of the government to meet our demands on illegal mining, Organized Labour has decided to declare a nationwide strike with effect from October 10, 2024," said Mr. Ansah.
Nationwide Strike and Call to Action
In response to the government’s inaction, Organized Labour is calling on all workers across the country to stay at home starting Thursday, October 10, 2024. This action, according to the union, is intended to exert pressure on the government to address the galamsey crisis more effectively. The strike is expected to involve workers from various sectors, signaling a significant disruption to the nation’s economy if the government does not respond promptly.
Mr. Ansah emphasized the importance of this collective action, urging workers to remain steadfast in their support for the strike. He added that illegal mining is not only an environmental issue but also an economic one, as it undermines the sustainability of resources and threatens the livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians.
Conclusion
The nationwide strike scheduled for October 10, 2024, highlights the growing frustration among workers and citizens regarding the government's failure to address the illegal mining problem. With environmental damage and economic hardship at stake, Organized Labour’s decision to take such a bold step underscores the urgency of the situation. As the strike looms, all eyes will be on the government to see how it responds to this escalating crisis
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