Manage nation’s oil resources properly-Ayawine

The Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU) has observed that with political will, coupled with commitment, honesty and tenacity of purpose, the nation’s oil resources could be managed well for the benefit of all Ghanaians. Making the observation in a New Year Message, Mr Morgan Ayawine, Acting Deputy General-Secretary of the ICU, pointed out that, “more jobs for the people through our oil resources should not be a lip-service, but a priority on government’s agenda”. Mr Morgan urged investors to respect all the provisions of the country’s laws, cautioning them to avoid exploitation of Ghanaian labour and union busting in the emerging oil companies. He said notwithstanding the difficulties associated with the unattractive conditions of service, Ghanaian workers put in their best last year, even when the reduction in inflation had not in any way reflected in their pockets. “However, there is more room for improvement, and workers must work harder with a greater sense of discipline, and improve on productivity in the coming year and beyond, as we are poised to grow our economy through the deepening of industrial peace and harmony.” The ICU Acting Deputy General-Secretary pointed out that the Union “expects government to review downward, the new tax levels, as announced in the 2011 budget, to reduce the operational cost of local industries.” He said in spite of the many daunting challenges that confront the nation, Ghanaians should be grateful to God for the level of political stability, tolerance and peace that had prevailed in the country. Mr Ayawine expressed regret about the massive lay-offs of workers by some distressed industries, which came about as a result of their inability to contain the increases in utility tariffs and fuel He said the ICU was of the view that, as a developing nation, and considering Ghana’s democratic credentials in Africa, “we should have been counting our blessings in terms of sustainable jobs and more opportunities for the Youth, to enable them to contribute their quota to the socio-economic advancement of our dear nation.” Mr Ayawine used the occasion to congratulate Ghanaian workers for putting in their best last year, and wished the Union’s social partners, a productive and very prosperous New Year.