VW 2001 Golf Brake lights do not work fuses ok?

The brake switch at the brake pedal is faulty, there have been recalls over this issue with post 1999 Golfs, Jettas, Beetle, etc. You can google it. It will need to be replaced. Or you can repair it yourself: go here for instructions:

http://www.geocities.com/jason_ettorre/VWBLS/BLS.htm

Jody