The government says it is surprised at the decision by Organised Labour to proceed with an industrial action despite its engagements.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 7, 2024, and signed by the Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, the government indicated that it is concerned about the issues of illegal mining.
“The government is surprised by the decision of Organised Labour to proceed with industrial action, given the steps that have been taken to address the concerns raised,” a statement read.
This follows a meeting between President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Organised Labour on October 3, 2024, where both parties discussed the long-standing issue of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey.’
The meeting, held at Jubilee House, resulted in several key agreements aimed at addressing the environmental damage caused by illegal mining activities.
Among the measures discussed, the government pledged to collaborate with stakeholders, including Organised Labour, to combat illegal mining.
Additionally, the statement indicated that the government is committed to revoking the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462) when Parliament reconvenes this month.
According to the Ministry, 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.
She has also noted that the two parties agreed that the Attorney-General will collaborate with the Chief Justice to ensure swift adjudication of illegal mining cases.
“Government 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 added.
