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Government has expressed disappointment in the Ghana LPG Operators Association (GLIPGOA) over their decision to embark on nationwide strike against the implementation of the Cylinder Re-circulation Model policy.

The LPG Operators are bracing themselves for the strike action scheduled on Monday, May 21, 2018.

The government has described the decision by the leadership of the Association as "not only disappointing but an attempt to compel Government to abandon a noble policy which will not only increase local participation but ensure enhanced safety standards in the LPG value chain across the country".

According to government, the decision to implement the policy was taken by Cabinet following public outcry to resolve the numerous gas explosion situations that have characterized the nation.

The members of the Association have been assured by government that the policy is not to throw them out of business but rather create opportunities for them to enhance their business.

"From projections, the potential impact of the new LPG distribution model indicates that a minimum of about five thousand (5000) direct jobs will be created in addition to the existing jobs in the industry estimated to be around three thousand five hundred (3500). The new areas in the supply chain which are bottling and transportation of filled cylinders will create new businesses and jobs once the distribution model becomes operational. It is important to establish that beyond the desire to create jobs, one of the fundamental aspects of the model is to enhance the safety of our citizens across the LPG value chain. Under the new policy and in line with international best practice, LPG bottling plants will be established within heavy industrial areas or locations as far away as possible from human habitation".

Government is therefore urging the Association and general public to remain calm as measures are put in place to ensure "LPG products continue to be available to them" in the country.

Read full statement below: