The National Sand, Stone and Tipper Drivers Association (NSSTD) has called for the suspension of the proposed 70 per cent increase in sand and gravel loading charges to allow for further consultation and negotiation.
The Association said the proposed increment was excessive and unfair, and urged the relevant stakeholders to review the charges to arrive at an acceptable adjustment.
In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Anthony Mensah, and copied to The Ghanaian Times, the NSSTD said any decision to increase the loading charges should first be subjected to consultations among all stakeholders.
It said such consultations would enable the parties to agree on a fair and reasonable adjustment that took into consideration the interests of both sand winners and tipper truck operators.
The Association said a review was necessary to ensure that charges imposed on truck drivers and customers were lawful, transparent and reasonable.
It further stated that it would continue to pursue lawful and peaceful avenues to challenge what it described as unfair treatment, unjustified increases, intimidation and harassment of its members.
The NSSTD also raised concerns over alleged assault and harassment of some of its members by officers of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) while they were performing their duties.
It therefore called on the Minerals Commission to investigate the allegations and conduct a thorough audit of the pricing structure being imposed by the NASSTTU Sand Winners.
The Association said it remained committed to protecting the rights and interests of its members, customers and other end users.
It maintained that dialogue, transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law were the best means of resolving the dispute.
The NSSTD warned that prompt intervention was needed to safeguard the interests of tipper truck drivers, customers and the wider construction industry.
BY PERPETUAL MENSAH
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