- GMet staff warned against joining nationwide strike.
- Strike aims to address Ghana's galamsey (illegal mining) crisis.
- GMet's operations deemed essential to national security.
- Non-compliant staff face termination.
Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) Board Chairman Isaac Amoo has issued a stern warning to staff, prohibiting them from participating in the nationwide strike called by Organised Labour. Speaking at GMet’s headquarters in Accra, Amoo emphasized that absenting oneself in line with the strike directive will result in termination. This warning comes on the eve of the nationwide strike, scheduled for October 10, 2024, initiated by Organised Labour to pressure the government into addressing the galamsey crisis.
The strike seeks to prompt the government to declare a state of emergency and implement measures to halt environmental destruction caused by galamsey, which has led to widespread pollution of water bodies and forest reserves. Amoo underscored GMet’s critical role in national security, providing essential weather data for sectors like aviation, agriculture, and emergency services.
GMet’s operations are vital to safeguarding lives and properties through accurate weather predictions. Amoo urged staff to prioritize their duties over the strike, emphasizing that GMet is part of the country’s essential services. “Any worker who will flout the directive should consider himself or herself as having terminated his or her appointment,” he stated.
Organised Labour, along with its allied unions, has been pushing for government action against galamsey. The strike is a last resort, following failed negotiations. Other groups, like mobile money operators, have also threatened strikes due to increased risks and economic losses related to galamsey [3).
The galamsey crisis has severe environmental and economic implications. Water pollution and deforestation threaten the livelihoods of millions. The government faces mounting pressure to address the issue.
GMet’s staff are essential to the country’s well-being, providing critical weather data. Their absence would compromise national security and essential services.
Amoo’s warning emphasizes the gravity of the situation. GMet staff must choose between their duties and participating in the strike.
The consequences of joining the strike are clear: termination. GMet’s leadership will not tolerate absences related to the strike.
The nationwide strike is set to begin on October 10, 2024. Its impact will be felt across various sectors, including essential services like GMet.
