Reconsider Intended Strike; Small Scale Miners to Organised Labour

The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners(GNASSM) has urged organised labour to have a second thought about their intended industrial action aimed at compelling the government to ban illegal mining and take other decisive actions to quell the menace.

Though the Association supports the calls for decisive action by the government, it is of the view that the strike will take a toll on the country’s “already-fragile” economy and instead suggested discussions in finding lasting and sustainable solutions which will be a win-win for all.

“There should be a bipartisan approach in dealing with the illegal mining menace. Those who are politicking with the issue for their own selfish gain should know that it is not the solution treading the path to our destruction as a people because when we don’t have water there is no life.”

They argue that measures put in place to deal with the menace should not disadvantage other sectors of the economy.

“Once again we know the importance of the small-scale mining sector which contributes over 8.4 per cent to GDP and 40 per cent of our merchandised export. It also provides job opportunities to many and an estimated 1 million directly and indirectly 4 million people. The supply of raw gold for value addition by our local jewellers and downstream job opportunities.”

Organised  Labour plans to go on a strike on October 10 after the government defied their ultimatum to declare a state of emergency; revoke LI 2462 that mandates the mining in forest reserves; remove seized machinery from forest reserves; establish special courts to try those engaging in illegal mining; give the police and the military a free hand to operate; and compel political parties vying in the general election to make a commitment to the fight against galamsey.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini