The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has urged its members to “continue providing full services without interruptions,” despite the upcoming nationwide strike planned by Organised Labour, which is set to begin on Thursday, October 10, 2024.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, GMA President Dr. Frank Serebour clarified that the GMA has not declared any plans for industrial action. “Therefore, all members are expected to continue providing full services without interruptions,” he emphasized.
While the GMA expressed solidarity with Organised Labour’s fight against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” Dr. Serebour stated that the association would not be joining the strike at this time. “The GMA is in solidarity with Organised Labour in this fight against galamsey. The National Executive Council (NEC) will provide further updates when necessary,” he added.
The government, meanwhile, expressed surprise at Organised Labour’s decision to proceed with the strike, given ongoing negotiations aimed at addressing illegal mining. On Monday, the government announced plans to revoke the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462) when Parliament reconvenes later this month. This move is part of a broader strategy to intensify enforcement against illegal mining, particularly in areas designated as “Red Zones,” such as water bodies and forest reserves.
A statement signed by Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar on October 7 reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal mining. It highlighted that law enforcement agencies have been empowered to take firm action against galamsey activities in these protected areas.
Additionally, the Attorney-General will work with the Chief Justice to ensure the swift handling of illegal mining cases, reinforcing the government’s resolve to combat the environmental damage caused by galamsey.
The government also expressed support for a proposal requiring all presidential candidates to sign a pact committing to the fight against illegal mining. This initiative aims to depoliticize the issue and promote unified national action against the practice.