The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has insisted it will embark on ann industrial action to force President Akufo-Addo to take drastic measures to halt all forms of mining that is polluting the riverbodies and forest reserves in the country.
The Secretary-General of the GFL who spoke on Power Kasiebo programme on TV XYZ emphasised the environmental and health crises caused by illegal mining, popularly known as ‘galamsey’.
To him, the situation is worse than ever and needs urgent measures to tackle the canker that is already jeopardizing the health of thousands of people who live in the areas where illegal mining is escalating.
Recently, there has been pressure on the government to declare a state of emergency on all mining activities to safeguard the rivers, forest reserves as well as the people of the of the country.
“Right now we the workers of the country are being affected by these galamsey activities. Our taps are not flowing because Ghana water Company can’t get water to treat and distribute to the people…The dangerous chemicals being used for the activities of these illegal miners are having adverse health implication on the people, majority of whom are workers,” Mr Koomson said.
Asked if their strike will have any effect, Mr Koomson said “even if someone has cast a spell on the president, I believe he will act when all workers in the country lay down their tools as a way of protesting illegal mining.”
Background
Beginning from October 10, 2024, majority of Ghanaian workers may not show up for work following a directive by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to workers to begin a strike action on the said day.
The directive is in connection with the government’s failure to address critical concerns regarding illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey in forest reserves across the country.
The announcement comes after an emergency meeting on Tuesday, 2 October 2024, where union representatives expressed their dissatisfaction with government’s lack of action.
In a prior ultimatum, Organised Labour had given the government until the end of September to implement effective measures against illegal mining activities, which they contend are harming the environment and jeopardizing the livelihoods of many Ghanaians.
The GFL which is part of Organised Labour has bemoaned the illegal mining and already prepared to direct its members to join the strike action on October 10.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
