The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective today October 10, 2024, following an overwhelming vote in favour of industrial action to support a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in ecologically sensitive areas.
The decision, backed by 77.95% of UTAG members across 15 branches, underscores the association’s firm stance on protecting the environment from destructive mining practices.
This comes after organized labour yesterday called off its planned nationwide strike against galamsey slated for today October 10.
TUC secretary general Joshua Ansah At a press conference yesterday indicated that the decision to suspend its intended strike followed a meeting with the government, during which the administration offered enhanced measures to strengthen the fight against galamsey.
After the meeting last night UTAG has declared an indefinite strike, demanding a nationwide ban on mining in forest reserves.
The decision, backed by 77.95% of UTAG members across 15 branches, underscores the association’s firm stance on protecting the environment from destructive mining practices.the NEC in a statement decided to invoke Article 19, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution, which empowers the council to declare a strike in situations of national importance.
The National Independent Electoral Committee (NIEC) has collated the results of the voting from the 15 Member Branches on the motion.
“Should the NEC of UTAG declare an INDUSTRIAL ACTION in support of the nationwide ban on mining and prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farms and rivers?”.
A total of 2,762 members across the 15 Member Branches cast their votes. Out of this, 2,153 representing 77.95% of the total votes, voted YES for the motion, while 607, representing 21.98% of the total votes, voted NO against the motion.
TWO (2) members, representing 0.07% of the total votes, voted to abstain.
The National Independent Electoral Committee (NIEC) therefore declares the Motion, CARRIED. Signed by The National Independent Electoral Committee (NIEC), chair Dr. Reuben Ayivor-Djanic
