Organised Labour has given the government a 19-day ultimatum to declare a state of emergency, in response to the severe health and environmental damage caused by illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
At a news conference held in Accra yesterday, the leadership of Organised Labour, headed by Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress detailed the escalating crisis caused by galamsey and its detrimental effects on the Ghanaian society and the environment.
Mr. Ansah emphasised the dire consequences of galamsey, including extensive deforestation, pollution of water bodies and significant health risks to communities.
He stressed the worsening situation caused by the use of toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, which is exacerbating respiratory and waterborne diseases, while endangering ecosystems.
Referencing a recent report from the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Mr Ansah noted that pollution of the River Pra has severely impacted the company’s ability to meet water needs for residents of Cape Coast and Elmina.
Additionally, the GWCL had to close its water treatment plant at Kyebi in 2022 due to the contamination of the Birim River.
He noted that the escalating costs of water treatment are now threatening Ghana with the possibility of importing water.
In response to the menace, Organised Labour has called for immediate government action, including:
- Declaration of a State of Emergency: This should involve halting all mining activities in forest reserves and around water bodies, removing mining equipment from these areas and deploying police and military forces to enforce these measures.
- Revocation of Mining Licenses: All licenses granted for mining in protected areas and near water bodies, including those under LI2462, should be immediately withdrawn.
- Establishment of a Special Court: A dedicated court should be set up to prosecute individuals involved in illegal mining activities.
Organised Labour has warned that if their demands are not met by the end of September 2024, they will initiate nationwide demonstrations and a strike.
They are calling on all Ghanaians to join them in addressing this challenge.
