Organised Labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has issued a stern warning to the government regarding the escalating galamsey crisis.
The group is demanding decisive action to address the crisis, threatening a nationwide strike by the end of September if their demands are not met.
In a statement issued by Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the TUC, Organised Labour called for the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.
The group also demanded a halt to all mining activities in forest reserves, citing the severe environmental degradation caused by galamsey.
Furthermore, Organised Labour called for the establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of galamsey operators.
The group also demanded the deployment of the military to remove and destroy all mining equipment in affected areas.
Ansah stressed that the government’s failure to act swiftly and decisively on the galamsey menace has resulted in severe environmental degradation.
This includes the destruction of rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves, which has devastating consequences for communities and the environment.
If no concrete measures are taken by the end of September, Organised Labour vowed to embark on a series of demonstrations and a nationwide strike to force the government’s hand.
This call by Organised Labour adds to the growing pressure on the government to take immediate and effective action against illegal mining, which continues to wreak havoc on Ghana’s natural resources and communities.
Read Press Statement Below:
