UTAG Now Leads Fight Against Galamsey as Organised Labour Disappointingly “Chickens-Out”
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective October 10, 2024, after 77.95% of its members voted in favor of industrial action.
This move is in support of a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in ecologically sensitive areas, particularly forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.
In a referendum organized by UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC), 2,153 of 2,762 members voted for the strike, demonstrating overwhelming support for environmental protection measures. Only 607 members opposed the action, with two abstaining.
The decision underscores UTAG’s firm stance on halting destructive mining practices, including illegal mining, known as “galamsey,” which has severely impacted Ghana’s natural resources.
UTAG has invoked its constitutional mandate to strike in situations of national importance and is demanding that the government impose a formal, nationwide ban on mining in protected areas.
The association has called this a “critical national cause,” reflecting its commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for communities affected by environmental degradation.
It must be emphasized that it is indeed a shame for Organised Labour to have backed-out of the nationwide strike against illegal mining (galamsey) which has caused havoc on the environment and poses significant long-term health hazards to citizens.
The preparation of a pre-written press statement on the suspension of the industrial strike action prior to discussions with UTAG on Wednesday, smirks of weakened commitment to the fight against galamsey on the part of the leadership of Organised Labour.
Additionally, it must be condemned in no uncertain terms the threat of employment termination by the CEO of GIHOC Distilleries, Kofi Jumah, and the Board Chairman of the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), Isaac Amoo, to employees of the two public institutions on their decision to join the nationwide strike against galamsey which has become an existential threat to Ghanaians.
The strike by UTAG adds significant pressure on the government, which has been facing increasing public concern over the adverse effects of illegal mining on the country’s environment.
Read Details of UTAG Statement Below:
