The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has today October 10, 2024, declared an industrial sit down action against the activities of illegal Mining commonly known as ‘Galamsey’.
The decision comes in response to Organised Labour’s rescinding its initial plan of embarking on an indefinite strike on October 10, 2024, to pressure government to declare a state of emergency on mining in Forest Reserves, Farms, and Water Bodies.
In line of the above, the “National Executive Council (NEC) of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has successfully concluded a referendum regarding industrial action to support a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farmlands, and rivers. The referendum, which involved participation from all 15 Member Branches of UTAG, had a total of 2,762 members casting their votes. The results are as follows:
YES: 2,153 votes (77.95%)
NO: 607 votes (21.98%)
Abstain: 2 votes (0.07%)
According to UTAG, with the “overwhelming majority of 77.95% voting in favour, the National Independent Elections Committee (NIEC) declares the motion CARRIED”.
UTAG added that this decisive outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of its “members to protect our environment and livelihoods from the destructive impact of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas such as forest reserves, farms, and water bodies”.
“Following the referendum, the NEC convened an emergency meeting, invoking Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution. In line with this constitutional mandate, NEC has unanimously declared an immediate INDEFINITE STRIKE from the 10th of October 2024 across all 15 UTAG branches. All members are directed to comply with this decision until the government formally announces a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies” UTAG concluded.