Benso (W/R) Dec. 10 -GNA- Workers have been reminded that it was in their own interest to protect the property of their organizations and eschew all negative practices that could adversely affect the economic fortunes of these organizations and the nation as a whole.

Major Albert Dawohoso, Acting Commanding Officer of Second Battalion Infantry Brigade (2BN) of the Ghana Army said pilfering and the misuse of property for personal gains by some workers could be likened to the gradual "killing of the hen that lays the golden eggs". Addressing this year's workers durbar and awards day of the Benso Oil Palm Plantation (BOPP) at Benso in the Western Region on Saturday, he advised the workers to give of their best and help management of the company to check the rampant stealing of produce from the plantations and other vices that militate against the progress of the company. In all, 22 workers, six smallholder farmers, five out-grower farmers and two communities -- Tikobo Number Two and Dominase were honoured for their excellent performance during the year. They were presented with television sets, sewing machines, bicycles, cartons of soap, Wellington boots, machetes and certificates as their prizes.

Ten workers who have served the company between ten and 30 years were honoured for their dedicated service. Major Dawohoso congratulated the award winners and said the awards must go a long way to boost their morale to work harder for the benefit of the company and the country.

Mr. Neneyo Mate-Kole, Managing Director of BOPP gave the assurance that the annual event meant to reward hard working staff and boost the morale of all the workers would be sustained.

He said production of palm fruits from the company's plantations and those supplied by out-growers and smallholders from January to November totalled 82,705 metric tons as against the target of 92,030 tons Purchases of fresh fruit bunch (ffb) from smallholders and out-grower farmers recorded a shortfall from a total of 45,892 metric tons between January to November 2005 to 42,488 metric tons over the same period this year.

Mr. Mate-Kole attributed the shortfall to stealing and diversion of crop and also the unwillingness of some farmers to apply fertilizer and advised farmers to desist from such acts of indiscipline. He said the company would continue to support the efforts of smallholders who invest their earnings to expand their farms and also assured them of prompt payment for their produce.

Mr. Anthony Evans Amoah, Western Regional Minister in an address read for him expressed satisfaction over the company's community activities to improve the lives of people in areas in which it operate. He mentioned some school, water, and road projects provided by BOPP and urged other organizations in the region to emulate BOPP. Mr. Stephen Aryeepah, Chairman of the local branch of the Agricultural Workers Union spoke about the existing excellent relationship between the Union and Management and said the door of Management had always remained open to enhance co-operation.