ICU WORKSHOP IN KOFORIDUA

The Cocoa Sector Union of the Industrial and Commercial Workers Union says any attempt to introduce competition into the grading and sealing of cocoa in the country can spell the doom of the cocoa industry. It said such competition will encourage all forms of abuses, thereby affecting the quality of Ghana's cocoa, which is acclaimed as the best worldwide. The Schedule Officer of the Cocoa Sector Union, Mr. Morgan Ayawine, gave the advice at the closing session of a three-day course for 21 cocoa Sector Union leaders in Koforidua. He called on Cocobod to rigidly enforce the Akuafo Cheque system as against cash payment by some private buyers of cocoa. Mr. Ayawine urged union leaders and the rank and file to assist management to achieve the target of 450 thousand tonnes per year by the year 2001. The Deputy Eastern Regional Manager of the Produce Buying Company, Mr. Owusu Acheaw, said the cocoa industry has got to a stage where management and the Union should work closely to increase and sustain the efficient running of the industry. He urged union leaders to educate and encourage their members to be more dedicated to their work for the smooth running of the Company. gri