Galamsey: Organised labour to strike from October 10 after ultimatum to govt elapses

Organised Labour has announced its decision to embark on a nationwide strike from October 10, 2024.

This follows the expiration of its ultimatum to the government to deal with illegal mining swiftly.

In a statement released by Organised Labour on October 1, 2024, it said: "Following the expiration of our deadline, and the failure of government to meet our demands on illegal mining (galamsey) Organised Labour has decided to declare a nationwide strike with effect from October 10, 2024."

The labour group earlier threatened to embark on a series of demonstrations and a nationwide strike if the government does not take drastic action against illegal mining activities also known as galamsey by the end of September this year.

The group said the government must bring a halt to all illegal mining activities along water bodies and forest reserves.

In a statement issued by Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Organised Labour asked the government to immediately declare a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.

They also want the establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of galamsey operators, and the deployment of the military to remove and destroy all mining equipment in affected areas.

“The government’s failure to act swiftly and decisively on the galamsey menace has resulted in severe environmental degradation, including the destruction of rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves,” TUC said in the statement.

Organised Labour has therefore asked all workers to stay at home starting Thursday October 10, 2024, until government accede to their demands.

SSD/GA

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