Mining workers dismiss reports on strike action

The Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU) has debunked rumours of a current strike action by some workers of the sector.

There were reports that some 10,000 mining workers have embarked on an industrial action within the sector following the grave concerns of their safety and working conditions.

But Mr Prince William Ankrah, General Secretary of the GMWU in an interview with Kasapa 102.5 FM has denied such reports.

According to him, the only action taken lately was in relation to a resolution passed over the weekend by the GMWU to compel government to respond positively to the safety of the working force and to negotiate in proper perspective their future within the mining sector.

“If you look at Obuasi Mines for instance, there were some worrying issues with regards to the workers and their safety. At least the working conditions of the remaining workforce after the retrenchment at Obuasi should be prioritized, and the stakeholders of the sector in general. This is what we were clamoring for so the government will respond to them immediately.”

“It doesn’t help that the industry faces a host of unresolved issues,” he noted, adding that the industry within three years has seen about 10,000 workers losing their jobs from the tumbling demand and declining grades amidst power issues that plagued the sector.