The General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) of TUC-Ghana has announced a nationwide strike starting Thursday, October 10, 2024, in protest of the government’s handling of illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey.”
In a statement released on Tuesday, October 8, GAWU explained that the strike comes after a lack of progress in talks with President Nana Akufo-Addo. During an October 3 meeting between organised labour and the president, the government failed to offer sufficient assurances to prevent the strike.
GAWU’s strike aligns with the broader efforts of organised labour, which has been advocating for the government to declare a state of emergency to address the galamsey issue. Labour unions have repeatedly raised concerns about the severe environmental damage and social consequences caused by illegal mining, calling on the government to take decisive action.
The union stressed that its members are united in their stand and urged management to back the cause. The statement added: “We call on all workers to refrain from reporting to work starting Thursday, October 10, 2024, until the government addresses our demands.”
GAWU’s move is part of a growing wave of pressure from various sectors, all demanding more effective measures to combat illegal mining and its devastating effects.
Read the statement below:
SOURCE: http://dew360.net
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