The National Labour Commission (NLC) has assured that the government will take immediate steps to address the concerns raised by Organised Labour regarding illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
This comes in light of Organised Labour’s declaration of a nationwide strike set to commence on October 10, 2024, in response to the government’s failure to tackle the pressing issue, which has severely impacted the environment and local livelihoods.
During an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Tuesday, NLC Executive Secretary Ofosu Asamoah expressed his deep concern over the planned strike, noting its potential to disrupt the country significantly.
“It is very worrying. If you even listen to the way I speak, you will know that I am worried because how can we have the whole of the labour force in Ghana being on strike? That will be a very massive loss to the government and the people of Ghana,” he stated.
Mr Asamoah highlighted the potential economic repercussions of such a widespread strike, especially considering the current state of Ghana’s economy.
“Our present economic situation is not the best. If we are going to lose all that, I don’t think it is good for us,” he added.
He expressed hope that the government would take swift action to resolve the issues raised by Organised Labour, which could prevent the strike from occurring. “I am sure the government will take immediate steps to address their concerns,” he said.
Additionally, Asamoah announced that the NLC would meet on Tuesday, October 2, to discuss Organised Labour’s decision to strike.
In an emergency meeting on October 1, 2024, members of Organised Labour voiced their frustrations regarding the government’s inaction, having previously set a deadline at the end of September for effective measures to combat illegal mining.
Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), explained the rationale behind the strike, stating, “Following the expiration of our deadline and the government’s failure to meet our demands regarding illegal mining, Organised Labour has decided to declare a nationwide strike effective October 10, 2024.” He further emphasized the damaging impact of galamsey, which not only devastates the environment but also poses serious health risks to affected communities.
Illegal mining continues to pose a significant challenge in Ghana, endangering vital water bodies and ecosystems. Despite government interventions, including deploying security forces and arresting illegal miners, the issue remains unresolved.