Government has expressed surprise at the decision by Organised Labour to embark on the nationwide strike on October 10, 2024 despite government engaging them.
In a statement dated 7th October, 2024 issued by the minister of information, Fatimatu Abubakar revealed that government had good faith in the meeting with the Union, only to be taken by surprise.
The minister stated that in the meeting with president Nana Akufo Addo, it was agreed as that ”Government will take steps, when Parliament reconvenes, this month, to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L. I. 2462).
“Government would ramp up its enforcement measures, particularly as it relates to prohibiting illegal mining in water bodies and forest reserves.
“Water bodies and Forest Reserves remain Red Zones for mining, and all forms of mining in water bodies, as well as reconnaissance, prospecting, exploration and/or small scale mining in Forest Reserves remain banned. Law enforcement agencies of the State are fully mandated to rid our water bodies and Forest Reserves of all forms of mining” portion of the statement read.
The statement also added that, the Attorney-General will collaborate with the Chief Justice to ensure swift adjudication of illegal mining cases.
It further added that Government will also supports the call for all Presidential Candidates to sign a pact committing to the fight against illegal mining so as to depoliticise this national problem.
The statement concluded that “In light of the above, Government is surprised by the decision of Organised Labour to proceed on an industrial action from 10th October, 2024. Government will, however, continue to engage Organised Labour and other stakeholders in a constructive dialogue in finding solutions for this national menace”.
Meanwhile, the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) in Kumasi has objected to the strike action taken by Organised Labour, stating they were not consulted.