The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has reaffirmed its commitment to proceed with the scheduled strike action on October 10 if the government fails to meet their demands regarding the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
TUC Vice Chairman, Ken Tweneboah Koduah, who confirmed the decision, said the strike remains on track despite ongoing discussions with the government.
He noted that TUC has already begun engaging its members in preparation for the strike.
“Nothing has changed from the last publication. I can assure you that our strike is on course… we stand very firm and unshaken on this,” Mr Koduah said.
He added, “As it stands today, there is no official response to us. We are meeting on Monday to consider what will come from the President, and the whole world will know what it is. We are not doing this for ourselves—that I can assure you.”
The union gave the government till the end of September to take decisive action to address the escalating illegal mining (galamsey) crisis.
In a statement issued by Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the TUC, organised labour demanded the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.
The group also called for a halt to all mining activities in forest reserves, 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.
However, the government has not acted on this request.
During an emergency meeting on Tuesday, October 1st, Organized Labour voiced their frustration over the government’s lack of action on the issue.
As a result, the group declared a nationwide strike effective October 10 in protest against galamsey, warning that the economic consequences could be severe.
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has met with Organised Labour to negotiate on the issue of strike.