The Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has expressed strong disapproval of Organised Labour’s decision to withdraw from a planned nationwide strike against illegal mining (galamsey).
TUTAG has announced its intent to initiate a strike of its own, calling for immediate government action to address the environmental devastation caused by galamsey.
In a press release issued after an emergency meeting held on October 9, 2024, TUTAG revealed its unanimous decision to support and join the proposed strike led by Organised Labour. However, TUTAG stated that before they could release their official statement, they learned that Organised Labour had unilaterally decided to back out of the strike without consulting other key members.
TUTAG condemned this move, accusing some elements within Organised Labour of undermining the collective strength of the labour movement. The association described the withdrawal as a missed opportunity to tackle one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental issues.
“The decision to ‘chicken out’ of a national strike that had the potential to address one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time—galamsey—without consulting the full membership undermines the unity and collective strength of the entire labour movement,” the press release stated.
TUTAG further argued that such actions erode the trust and confidence of members who expect solidarity and transparency in the fight against galamsey.
TUTAG’s Demands and Call to Action
Despite their disappointment with Organised Labour’s actions, TUTAG reiterated its unwavering commitment to the fight against galamsey. The association announced plans to embark on an independent strike and initiated the necessary processes under the Labour Act to assert their right to strike.
At an emergency congress held on October 10, 2024, TUTAG put forth a list of demands, urging the government to take immediate and decisive steps to combat illegal mining and protect the environment.
These demands include:
1. Revocation of Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462 – TUTAG calls on Parliament to recall and revoke LI 2462, which governs the granting of mining licenses in environmentally sensitive areas.
2. Halt on New Mining Licenses – The government should cease issuing new licenses and withdraw those granted for mining in forest reserves and areas near water bodies.
3. Ban on Mining in Forest Reserves – A complete ban on mining activities in forest reserves and areas around water bodies, with the government declaring a state of emergency in these regions.
4. Reassessment of Small-Scale Mining – The association urges a recall of all licenses for small-scale mining and calls for a bipartisan stakeholder consultation on sustainable small-scale mining.
5. Reclamation of Lands – The government should initiate the reclamation of lands devastated by small-scale mining and galamsey activities.
6. Increased Budget for Water Supply – In light of the pollution of water bodies, TUTAG demands that more budgetary resources be allocated to the Ghana Water Company to ensure sustainable water supply for all citizens.
7. Political Commitment to Environmental Sustainability – All political parties should sign a national pact to ensure the long-term sustainability of anti-galamsey measures beyond party lines.
TUTAG urged the government to take immediate action on these demands to protect the environment, safeguard the future of the country, and restore public faith in leadership.
Moving Forward
TUTAG reassured its members that they are proceeding with plans for industrial action and encouraged them to remain calm and united.
The association promised to continue engaging relevant stakeholders and to update members as new developments unfold.
“We remain fully committed to the fight against galamsey and the defence of our environment for future generations. Despite the betrayal from some quarters, we stand in solidarity with all unions and bodies who have decided to take action through strikes and demonstrations,” TUTAG’s leadership said in the statement.
The association vowed to stand firm in the fight to protect Ghana’s natural resources and called for collective action to tackle the ongoing galamsey crisis.