Abdulai Salifu, the acting labour officer in the Upper East Region, has stated that there is a critical need for government intervention to address the ongoing environmental and health crises resulting from illegal mining.
This remark comes after organised labour announced plans for a nationwide strike starting October 10 if the government does not take immediate steps to ban illegal mining activities, known locally as “galamsey.”
Mr. Salifu expressed deep concerns about the long-term effects of galamsey on water bodies, forests, and agricultural lands. He urged the government to tackle this issue head-on, highlighting that the health of citizens and the future of the nation are at stake. He argued that a harmonious industrial environment is essential for economic stability and that the current situation cannot be ignored.
“We know the consequences that will arise when the government decides to crack down on galamsey, but let’s consider our health, our future, our children, and our industry. For us to have a harmonious industrial atmosphere, the government should confront this issue squarely so that we can restore our water bodies, recover our forests, and ensure that agricultural lands are not destroyed.”
He also warned of the potential consequences of the strike, noting that employers could face significant financial losses if workers are paid for non-productive time. “We are pleading with the government to listen to what organised labour is saying so that we don’t have to face this strike again. We don’t want to face this strike again because it will bring additional consequences.”
The ripple effects of such a strike could strain businesses, leading to further economic challenges. “Business is for profit, so if you are paying people who are not producing, aren’t you running at a loss?”
The labour officer called on the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with organised labour to demonstrate a commitment to resolving the issue. He stressed the importance of allowing water bodies and forests to recover, advocating for reforestation and land reclamation initiatives. “The government should listen very carefully to ensure that the October 10 threat from organised labour does not come to fruition. They should meet with organised labour to show that they are taking steps to resolve the issue and ensuring that people leave the forests and allow the water bodies to recover. We should focus on reforestation and land reclamation. What is happening is serious,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga |