Galamsey: Govt will attend to the issues – Palgrave

The government’s spokesperson on Governance and Security Palgrave Boakye-Danquah has said that the government is working to address the issues relating to illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey).

He states that the measures being implemented will not take a day or two to yield results.

“The measures are still being implemented, it doesn’t take a day or two to resolve the issue, it will take a long time to solve the issue,” he said on the Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, October 5 while commenting on the plea of President Akufo-Addo to labour unions for more time to address galamsey.

The President had called on organised labour to reconsider its planned nationwide strike set for October 10, highlighting his commitment to addressing concerns related to illegal mining, which is severely damaging the environment.

This appeal was made during a closed-door meeting with union leaders on October 3, where illegal mining was a key focus of discussion. Sources indicate that the President requested a postponement of the strike to allow more time to address the unions’ demands.

Analysts caution that a nationwide strike could have far-reaching effects, potentially disrupting multiple sectors of the economy. This looming threat highlights the need for prompt action.

In response to the escalating tensions, President Akufo-Addo has pledged to convene another meeting with Organised Labour next week to further discuss their concerns and seek potential solutions.

A source noted that the President’s willingness to engage in dialogue underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for collaboration between the government and labour groups.