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Tag: NLC

  • Railway services set to resume after workers call off strike

    Railway services set to resume after workers call off strike

    Railway services are expected to resume in the coming days after the Railway Workers Union of Ghana called off its strike. This comes after the National Labour Commission (NLC) expressed its willingness to negotiate on the demands of the railway workers on September 30.


    The Railway Workers Union of Ghana had earlier declared its intention to strike on Tuesday, September 30, if the government does not pay the twelve months’ salary owed them. According to a press statement dated September 24, and addressed to the Greater Accra Regional Police Commander, the Union revealed, “We wish to inform your esteemed office that the National Labour Commission (NLC) has responded to our letter dated 16th September 2025, regarding our intended lawful strike and peaceful picketing action scheduled for 30th September.

    Parts of the statement read, “ The Commission has directed that we stay our intended action and appear for negotiations on 30th September 2025. We remain committed to this process and will honour the Commission’s directive in good faith.”


    However, the Union has warned that should the NLC go back on its words, it will have no option but to proceed with its industrial strike.

    It added,”The Commission has directed that we stay our intended action and appear for negotiations on 30th September 2025. We remain committed to this process and will honour the Commission’s directive in good faith.”

    Earlier, the General Secretary of the TUC, Joshua Ansah, had given the government a six-day window to settle the workers or expect an industrial action to drum home their demands following the failure of authorities to address them.


    According to him, the railway workers have been subjected to hardships in the last twelve months, and they are no longer going to take assurances without action from the government.


    “It’s been 12 solid months since the workers of the company were paid. Just imagine the situation of a worker and their family in today’s Ghana without a salary for 12 calendar months,” adding that all they have exhausted all avenues to get their grievances addressed; however, all efforts have proven futile.


    “We have written letters and engaged the government at the highest level. We will no longer settle for assurances. We have had enough of them already,” he said.


    Accordingly, Mr Ansah stated that “We have sent a notice to the government and the owner of the company that if by September 30 the 12-month outstanding salaries owed to our affiliate are not paid, TUC will embark on a strike”.


    While the state previously covered 70% of railway workers’ salaries, this support has been reduced, leaving the Ghana Railway Company and its staff in crisis. In light of that, Mr Ansah urged the government to “look for any means” to settle the 12-month debt immediately.


    “The state used to pay 70% of the salaries of the railway workers, but that support has been withdrawn,” he noted.


    Speaking on the planned commissioning of the Tema–Mpakadan Railway line on October 1, TUC admonished the government to abort it, as the operators, i.e., Ghana Railway Company Limited, have not been officially informed about it.


    “The Ghana Railway Company Limited, which is the operator, the ministry can’t purport to run the Mpakadan rail line and other lines without the operator. We will resist any attempt to sideline the Ghana Railway Company Limited,” he added.


    This follows the Railway Workers Union officially notifying the Greater Accra Regional Police Command of its intention to strike and picket on September 30 due to the government’s failure to pay salaries since October 2024.


    Reaffirming the TUC’s solidarity with the workers, Mr Ansah said: “The union itself was founded on railway land, and we have a duty to ensure fair treatment and timely pay for railway staff.”


    Barely five months ago, the Railway Workers Union declared an industrial action over a 7-month unpaid arrears of 900 staff members if the Ghana Railway Company Limited fails to pay.


    This comes after the group stated on Monday, May 12, that it was giving authorities until the close of Tuesday, May 13, to pay them or explain the reason for the delay in payment of their salaries.


    During a media engagement, the Branch Secretary of the Accra division, Franklin Cobbinah, explained that the move has been necessitated as all efforts to engage the government have proven futile, citing that “…we learnt our management together with the union have been there but what comes out at the meeting we are told anything”.


    Responding to concerns of issuing a short notice of their action to the government, Mr Cobbinah insisted that, “For us, it’s not short because we have waited for quite a long time, 7 months, so when should we tell them to bring us our salary again? The time is now. That is why we gave them by the close of yesterday.”


    “We started demanding this salary somewhere last year, and we were told we are to wait till we get a sector minister, so we continue from there. We are told there was no sector minister to talk about the Railway Ministry. We learnt our management together with the union and have been there, but what comes out at the meeting we are told anything,” he added.


    The Ministry of Railway Development, according to the Branch Secretary of the Accra division, visited for a headcount, promising to settle their salaries right after May Day; however, there has been no news of their settlement for the past twelve days.


    “…the Ministry came to take particulars of ours and we were told just after May day we would receive our salaries and today is 13th (sic) we haven’t heard anything, nobody is telling us what is going on. So the only decision we, the workers, can take is to sit down and wait for the management to come and tell us why we haven’t been paid,” he added.


    In response to the union’s strike, the Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has issued a statement distancing itself from the industrial action by workers of the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL). They said they have no connection to it and that it does not affect its operations.


    “We wish to assure the public that the GRDA remains fully operational and has not initiated or endorsed any form of public demonstration on any issue,” the statement said.


    The Transport Minister announced on September 18 the opening of the Tema-Mpakadan railway. Speaking during the Government Accountability Series press conference held at the Presidency in Accra, Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe announced that a test run of the Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) train, which was freshly procured from Poland and was involved in an accident in 2024, has been successfully carried out on the railway, which is set to be opened in October.


    “The train that was involved in the accident during the test drive in 2024 has been repaired. A successful test run was carried out on September 16, “The 97km Tema to Mpakadan Railway Line, which is part of a multimodal system connecting Tema Port to Buipe Port via the Volta Lake, has been completed, and I am pleased to announce that the Tema–Mpakadan Railway will officially open on October 1,” he noted.


    He continued that the completion and soon-to-be-opened railway forms part of the government’s plans to broaden the rail infrastructure for goods and passenger services.


    “The Government plans to modernise and expand the railway infrastructure for fleet and passenger services, creating jobs, boosting local economies and fostering trade”, adding that “the viability of the rail line depends on fleet services but requires further investment in port infrastructure to facilitate the transfer of cargo between rail and the lake.”

  • NLC rules in favour of Ken Attafuah over dismissal of NIA worker

    NLC rules in favour of Ken Attafuah over dismissal of NIA worker

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has upheld the decision of former Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Professor Ken Attafuah, regarding the dismissal of Martin Akowuah, a former employee of the authority.

    The ruling, delivered on March 14, affirmed that Mr. Akowuah’s termination in 2023 was justified, as it was based on his unauthorized adjustment of working hours at the NIA’s Madina district office without official approval.

    Following his dismissal, Mr. Akowuah petitioned the NLC, seeking a reversal of the decision. However, after a thorough review, the Commission concluded that Professor Attafuah’s actions were in line with the Human Resource Management Policy Framework and Manual for the Ghana Public Service, as well as the NIA’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) on registration.

    “It is the decision of the Commission that the decision of the Respondent to dismiss the Complainant was in line with the Human Resource Management Policy Framework and Manual for the Ghana Public Service and NIA’s SOP on registration, for the unlawful, unilateral and irregular alteration of the working hours of NIA without the due authorization and approval of NIA,” the ruling stated.

    Reacting to the verdict, Professor Attafuah reiterated his commitment to fairness in employee management.

    “Mr. Martin Akowuah’s allegations that I treated him unfairly run contrary to my nature, and to everything I stand for, and to everything I have done as a human rights advocate here and abroad. I believe I’m fair to a fault, using my training as a lawyer to serve humanity with integrity and to advance good governance in good conscience,” he stated in a media interview.

    He also highlighted the challenges of institutional leadership in Ghana, citing misinformation and political interference as major obstacles.

    “Unfortunately, providing effective institutional leadership is a particularly difficult and challenging enterprise in our part of the world where excessive politicization and personalization of issues, unbridled propaganda and misuse of social and mainstream media often blur clarity, confound the public, suppress the truth, and destroy decent champions of discipline and sound public ethics. Thankfully, as in this case, truth stands, eventually!” he added.

    The ruling by the NLC brings closure to the dispute, reinforcing the authority’s internal policies on staff conduct and operational procedures.

    Letter-NLC Ruling Akowuah Vs NIA March 2025Download
  • NLC summons TEWU over intended strike action

    NLC summons TEWU over intended strike action

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has called on the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) of TUC to appear before it regarding their planned strike action.

    The NLC, in a statement, appealed to TEWU to reconsider its decision and re-engage in negotiations to address their concerns.

    TEWU had announced on Thursday, November 14, its plan to begin an indefinite strike starting Monday, November 18, 2024. The union expressed frustration over delays in finalizing and implementing Conditions of Service agreements for staff in institutions such as the Ghana Education Service (GES), Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, Public Technical Universities, and Public Universities.

    While acknowledging receipt of TEWU’s strike notification, the NLC emphasized the legal requirements under Section 159 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which outlines the processes unions must follow before embarking on industrial actions.

    The Commission has scheduled a meeting with TEWU and other stakeholders for Wednesday, November 20, 2024, to discuss the issues and seek an amicable resolution.

    Additionally, the NLC has instructed employers, including the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), to submit a comprehensive status report on the unresolved matters by Tuesday, November 19, 2024.

    Document 104 (1)Download
  • NLC drags GHA workers to court over strike

    NLC drags GHA workers to court over strike

    National Labour Commission (NLC) has initiated legal proceedings in response to the ongoing strike by workers of the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA).

    The GHA workers began an indefinite strike on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, to protest the implementation of the National Roads Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1118).

    In a statement issued the same day, the NLC stressed that the strike action was not conducted in accordance with the legal requirements outlined in the Labour Act, 2023 (Act 651). Consequently, the commission directed the workers to suspend the strike and adhere to proper procedures.

    However, NLC Executive Secretary Ofosu Asamoah stated in an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu that the commission had moved to take legal action because the workers had disregarded its directive to follow due process.

    “They did not follow the due process the law provides for that you should give the labour commission at least seven days’ notice, two notices to the commission and then to your employers and in their case even when it comes to the declaration of strike it is done by the national union and not a divisional union.

    “So in both cases they were wrong and you know earlier before the strike could take place the Ministry had petitioned the commission and they were summoned before the commission.

    “We have initiated (legal action) it already. We are yet to be called. But in any case, if they decide to go back we will have to halt the court action and I think that it will be in their interest and the interest of all Ghanaians that once they have admitted before the commission that they had not followed the due process we expect them to respect our directive,” Asamoah stated.

  • PSWU members to resume work on Oct 25

    PSWU members to resume work on Oct 25

    The Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) has announced the suspension of its strike action following an immediate directive from the National Labour Commission (NLC).

    This directive, issued after a meeting involving the PSWU, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), and the NLC, aimed to mediate a resolution to the ongoing labour dispute.

    In a statement released on Friday, October 25, 2024, the PSWU confirmed that its members on the Single Spine Salary Structure would resume work on Monday. The PSWU emphasized that suspending the strike is part of efforts to seek a mutually beneficial resolution to the outstanding issues with the government.

    The union expressed hope that the parties involved will continue negotiations to address the concerns that led to the industrial action.

    “We wish to inform you that per the directives of the National Labour Commission (attached), the structure of the union met and have agreed to suspend the industrial action to allow for the negotiations to be done 18 within the stipulated time given by the NLC.

    “In view of the above, we direct all our members subsisting on the Single Spine to report to work on Monday, 28th October. 2024.”

    It warned that if the negotiations fail to yield results, it will take appropriate action.

  • Govt will take immediate steps to address Organised Labour’s concerns – NLC

    Govt will take immediate steps to address Organised Labour’s concerns – NLC

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has assured that the government will take immediate steps to address the concerns raised by Organised Labour regarding illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

    This comes in light of Organised Labour’s declaration of a nationwide strike set to commence on October 10, 2024, in response to the government’s failure to tackle the pressing issue, which has severely impacted the environment and local livelihoods.

    During an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Tuesday, NLC Executive Secretary Ofosu Asamoah expressed his deep concern over the planned strike, noting its potential to disrupt the country significantly.

    “It is very worrying. If you even listen to the way I speak, you will know that I am worried because how can we have the whole of the labour force in Ghana being on strike? That will be a very massive loss to the government and the people of Ghana,” he stated.

    Mr Asamoah highlighted the potential economic repercussions of such a widespread strike, especially considering the current state of Ghana’s economy.

    “Our present economic situation is not the best. If we are going to lose all that, I don’t think it is good for us,” he added.

    He expressed hope that the government would take swift action to resolve the issues raised by Organised Labour, which could prevent the strike from occurring. “I am sure the government will take immediate steps to address their concerns,” he said.

    Additionally, Asamoah announced that the NLC would meet on Tuesday, October 2, to discuss Organised Labour’s decision to strike.

    In an emergency meeting on October 1, 2024, members of Organised Labour voiced their frustrations regarding the government’s inaction, having previously set a deadline at the end of September for effective measures to combat illegal mining.

    Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), explained the rationale behind the strike, stating, “Following the expiration of our deadline and the government’s failure to meet our demands regarding illegal mining, Organised Labour has decided to declare a nationwide strike effective October 10, 2024.” He further emphasized the damaging impact of galamsey, which not only devastates the environment but also poses serious health risks to affected communities.

    Illegal mining continues to pose a significant challenge in Ghana, endangering vital water bodies and ecosystems. Despite government interventions, including deploying security forces and arresting illegal miners, the issue remains unresolved.

  • GAP and NLC announce withdrawal from December polls

    GAP and NLC announce withdrawal from December polls

    The National Liberation Congress (NLC) and the Ghana Alternative Party (GAP) have announced their withdrawal from the December 7 Polls.

    This decision was made following an emergency meeting on September 11, led by the founder and leader of GAP, Osahene Nana Agyei Boateng.

    Originally, the NLC and GAP had planned to run Stephen Atubiga as an independent candidate.

    However, the parties faced obstacles, including delays in receiving the NLC’s certification from the Electoral Commission (EC) and insufficient time to update their alliance logo.

    The decision was influenced by various factors, including voter feedback indicating that supporting an independent candidate might be futile due to the dominant competition between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Many voters and analysts also believe that only the major parties are equipped to effectively manage the country’s current economic challenges.

    The alliance also considered that a united third force of independent candidates and smaller parties could have attracted more support. However, the fragmentation within these groups led to voter skepticism.

    Despite their exit from the election race, the NLC and GAP remain dedicated to their vision and manifesto.

    They intend to back any party that aligns with their objectives for the country’s benefit.

  • NLC obtains interlocutory injunction to stop CETAG’s strike

    NLC obtains interlocutory injunction to stop CETAG’s strike

    National Labour Commission (NLC) has secured an interlocutory injunction to halt the ongoing strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG).

    CETAG began their strike on Friday, June 14, 2024, in protest against the government’s delay in implementing the arbitral award and negotiated service conditions.

    Despite an NLC order to end the strike on June 20, CETAG continued their industrial action, prompting the commission to hold a hearing where it announced plans to sue the government to enforce its arbitral award orders in CETAG’s favor.

    The NLC’s injunction now prohibits CETAG from continuing the strike. Additionally, the NLC is requesting the court to restrain CETAG’s Executives, Officers, Members, Agents, Servants, Employees, and any other associated individuals from further participating in the strike action.

    “Counsel for and on behalf of the Applicant herein shall pray this Honourable Court for an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the Respondent herein, whether by Itself, Its Executives, Officers, Members, Agents, Servants, Employees or other persons from further embarking on their strike action which they commenced from 14th June 2024.”

    The Commission is seeking an order to compel CETAG to comply with its directive, dated June 21, 2024, and call off the strike action.

    “AND FOR an order compelling the Respondent herein, whether by Itself, the Executives, Officers, Members, Agents, Servants, Employees or other persons to comply with the Directive of the National Labour Commission dated 2Is1 June, 2024 to call off the strike action upon grounds contained in the accompanying affidavit and for any further orders as this Honourable Court may deem fit.”

    The court will be moved on Thursday, July 18, for a hearing.

  • We will strike again if govt doesn’t present a satisfactory offer – NIA staff

    We will strike again if govt doesn’t present a satisfactory offer – NIA staff

    Staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA) are hopeful as they prepare for their scheduled meeting with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) today, June 14, to discuss their conditions of service.

    The union had previously launched a strike, which was called off after the National Labour Commission intervened, allowing negotiations to proceed.

    The strike had caused significant disruptions at various NIA centres, leaving many individuals seeking services stranded.

    Speaking to Citi News, the secretary of the NIA staff, Kwabena Adu Kyeremeh, warned that another strike might be declared if today’s meeting does not produce satisfactory results.

    “It is reasonable and fair compared to what our colleagues in other public or government institutions are receiving comparing their degrees or certificates that we are holding from masters level and first degree and diploma up to SSCE, and then the number of years of experience against what is happening in NIA, then we are going to be okay.

    “We are expecting the government to come home with a very good offer. Then we will also accept it in the interest of Mother Ghana. And they [the aggrieved staff] have also indicated to the general public that if today, they are not successful, they will declare the strike on our behalf.”

  • Labour Unions and government have no trust for each other – NLC

    Labour Unions and government have no trust for each other – NLC

    Executive Secretary of the National Labour Commission (NLC), Ofosu Asamoah, has revealed that there’s a significant level of mistrust between labor unions and the government.

    Mr. Asamoah highlighted that this ongoing tension often culminates in industrial strikes against the government, despite assurances to address labor unions’ demands.

    In an interview with TV3, he emphasized that the composition of the NLC ensures impartiality towards any political party in power, eliminating bias.

    Ofosu Asamoah said, “There is a high level of mistrust between Labour Unions and government. The composition of the NLC makes it nearly impossible to be biased towards any party.”

    In November last year, Organised Labour proposed a 75% increase in base pay for 2024, initiating negotiations with the government.

    Subsequently, reports indicated that Organised Labour agreed to a 60% base pay increment during negotiations.

    After two days of negotiation, the labor union secured a 23% raise in the base pay for 2024.

    It’s anticipated that this increase will be adjusted upwards by an additional 2% from July 2024 to December 2024.

    This adjustment will result in a total increase of 25% for the year.

  • Postpone March 22 meeting – Teacher Unions to NLC, Employment Ministry

    Postpone March 22 meeting – Teacher Unions to NLC, Employment Ministry

    The three striking teacher unions have requested the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations to postpone their meeting with the National Labour Commission, initially scheduled for today, March 22, to Monday, March 25.

    The unions, which include the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers, commenced a nationwide strike on Wednesday, March 20.

    They cite the government’s alleged reluctance to address their conditions of service as the reason for their action.

    Despite the National Labour Commission’s directive for the unions to halt the strike, it continues unabated.

    Herbert Arko Forson, the general secretary of the Coalition of Concerned Teachers, explained to Citi News the unions’ rationale for requesting the rescheduling of the meeting.

    “We have responded to the invitation by the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, indicating that they want to meet us so that we can have the discussion. Honestly, we can’t refuse to attend such meetings, but most of our leaders do not stay in Accra, so we would like to organize ourselves. Therefore, we are proposing rescheduling the meeting to Monday, March 25, so that we can honour the invitation and then proceed with the discussion as expected.”

  • Labour expert hints at more impending strikes

    Labour expert hints at more impending strikes

    Labour consultant Austin Gamey has issued a warning to the Labour Commission (NLC), highlighting the likelihood of increased industrial actions by various groups and unions in the coming days. 

    Gamey attributes this potential surge to the government‘s failure to address critical issues raised by unions, particularly in financial matters. 

    He warned that the National Labour Commission could be overwhelmed if these issues are not promptly addressed. 

    Gamey emphasizes the importance of the employer’s proactive and responsive approach to prevent discontent among unions, urging effective management of human resources to avoid further strikes.

    “They will join and to handle it would be beyond description because the National Labour Commission will be overwhelmed, and the consequences are very dire,” he stated.

    Gamey explained that with his years of experience in the field, it appears there is a simmering discontent among various unions regarding financial matters.

    “Because of the work we do, our nose smells all these types of things… we are aware that many other unions are concerned about some indebtedness this way or the other,” he added.

    Gamey advised that the employer, particularly its human resource management systems, should be proactive and responsive in dealing with the issues, so that the unions would not feel neglected and resort to strikes.

    “So, it’s for the employer, especially its human resource management systems, to be activated to ensure that they are very frontal in dealing with the issues so that others do not say that they will have to wait and then cash in,” he stressed.

    The country is currently witnessing a wave of strikes from the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana, Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU-TUC), and Ghana Association of University Administrators, who are demanding better conditions of service and payment of their allowances.

  • Your strike lacks merit and justification – NLC tells teacher unions

    Your strike lacks merit and justification – NLC tells teacher unions


    The Executive Secretary of the National Labour Commission (NLC), Ofosu Asamoah, has criticized the ongoing strike by labor unions within the educational sector, deeming their actions ‘unmeritorious’ and ‘needless.’

    Currently, the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana, Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG), Teachers and Educational Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU), and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) are on strike due to the government’s failure to address their concerns.

    These concerns include issues such as tier-two pension funds, vehicle maintenance allowance, and overtime allowance, among others. Despite ongoing negotiations with the Commission, the unions opted for a strike, prompting Mr. Ofosu to express his disapproval.

    In an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Mr. Ofosu criticized the unions for their precipitous decisions, especially when agreements had been reached during negotiations.

    “There was an agreement between the parties involved. You leave the commission and go and declare a strike, and all others have also joined. You have put something across, and you have agreed, why go on strike when your issues have been resolved? Why do you want to be on strike when those issues that have not been resolved are being resolved by your good self?”

    “It’s quite an unfortunate situation. It’s like, at the moment, the strike is becoming a tool that is being misused. I failed to find the legs on which they were standing to declare the strike and close all universities. As if they just want to close it for fun. Their strike is unmeritorious, it’s needless,” he pointed out.

    He further described the actions by the labour unions as ‘wrong’ and unlawful.’

    “As the Executive Secretary of the NLC, with my experience, knowledge, and everything of the law, I think this is an unlawful [strike],” Mr. Asamoah insisted.

    As the Executive Secretary of the NLC, Mr. Asamoah further described the actions by the labor unions as ‘wrong’ and ‘unlawful.’

  • These strikes are just needless – NLC fumes at teacher unions

    These strikes are just needless – NLC fumes at teacher unions

    Executive Secretary of the National Labour Commission (NLC), Ofosu Asamoah, has strongly criticised the labour unions in the education sector currently on strike, calling their actions ‘unjustified’ and ‘unnecessary.’

    The Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana, the Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG), the Teachers and Educational Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU), and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) are already on strike due to the government’s failure to address their pressing concerns.

    Some of the unions complained about the employer’s lack of attention to their welfare needs, such as tier-two pension funds, vehicle maintenance allowance, and overtime allowance, among other issues.

    During an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Mr. Ofosu criticised the unions for their quick decisions despite ongoing negotiations with the Commission.

    “There was an agreement between the parties involved. You leave the commission and go and declare a strike, and all others have also joined. You have put something across, and you have agreed. Why go on strike when your issues have been resolved? Why do you want to be on strike when those issues that have not been resolved are being resolved by your good self?”

    “It’s quite an unfortunate situation. It’s like, at the moment, the strike is becoming a tool that is being misused. I failed to find the legs on which they were standing to declare the strike and close all universities. As if they just want to close it for fun. Their strike is unmeritorious; it’s needless,” he pointed out.

    He went on to characterise the actions of the labour unions as ‘incorrect’ and unlawful.

    “As the Executive Secretary of the NLC, with my experience, knowledge, and everything of the law, I think this is an unlawful [strike],” Mr. Asamoah insisted.

  • Your indefinite strike action is distorting resolution efforts – NLC tells Senior staff of universities

    Your indefinite strike action is distorting resolution efforts – NLC tells Senior staff of universities

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has expressed concern that the ongoing industrial action by the Senior Staff Association of Public Universities in Ghana (SSA-UoG) and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG) is hindering efforts to address their grievances.

    Executive Secretary of the NLC, Mr. Ofosu Asamoah, stated that his attempts to persuade the striking group to suspend the industrial action in favor of negotiations have been unsuccessful.

    He believes that the prolonged strike will hamper efforts to resolve their issues and expressed hope that the Senior Staff would call off the strike immediately to allow for a scheduled meeting next week.

    “There has been a complaint and a response, so we now have to bring the parties together and see the way forward. Either the Commission will settle it summarily, or there will be mediation or an arbitration. 

    “So the two parties must come together, then, with the Commission’s assistance, we look at the thing and see the issue at stake, and that’s why we invited them.

    “Unfortunately, the senior staff are saying that they committed to their schedule so they couldn’t come, but they can make it on the 24th, and we communicated to the other party.

    “The only issue for now is that of the strike which has started. Whenever there is a strike, issues must be attended to urgently,” he said.

    Commenting on whether the NLC made efforts to prevent the Senior Staff from embarking on the strike, Mr Asamoah asserted, “We did, by first writing to those against whom the complaint has been made, that this is what the Senior Staff Association is saying. What are you doing to avert the strike? We had in our letter that they should apprise the Commission of what steps they are taking within these days, and then we fixed the date to meet the two parties. That is what was done.”

    The ongoing strike by the Senior Staff Association of Public Universities in Ghana (SSA-UoG) and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff (FUSSAG) was initiated on Thursday, January 19, to demand improved conditions of service, payment of tier-two pension arrears, and restoration of overtime allowances.

    However, the National President of the Association, Isaac Donkoh, mentioned in an interview that they were willing to call off the strike and return to the negotiation table if the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) withdrew its denial about their overtime allowance.

    “I think we are gradually getting somewhere, and once my good friend has spoken, we are taking it in good faith. I think we still have the second letter in circulation, so they should write and withdraw the second letter. We have to also get the two people to intervene, and then we are good to go,” he said.

    Commenting on whether the strike can be suspended while they pursue the other issues of regarding the interests of the students, Mr Donkoh said; “That is not anything difficult to do. I can’t assure you on the phone, but it’s nothing difficult. I will have a discussion, and then we’ll take it from there, so it is nothing difficult at all.”

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, Mr. Ben Arthur, expressed that the ongoing strike by the senior staff is unfortunate.

    “That letter was rejected. It was not directed at public universities where the infraction had been reported. So way back on June 30th, 2023, as my good friend Isaac has alluded to, the matter should be resolved. So if we have any issues, any non-compliance for which you have noticed, then it is only fair that you come back to us to resolve the matter,” he said.

  • Outcome of meeting with NLC to determine fate of TUSSAG strike

    Outcome of meeting with NLC to determine fate of TUSSAG strike

    The National Executive Committee of the Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) is set to engage with the National Labour Commission (NLC) on Wednesday regarding the suspension of its planned strike. 

    The association has concurrently issued a call for tranquility across all affected campuses amidst these deliberations.

    The Association had initially issued a strike threat due to the alleged failure of management in certain Technical Universities to address concerns related to retirement. However, it later decided to rescind this threat.

    In an interview, President of the Association, Joseph Mensah disclosed that a crunch meeting with the NLC will determine the fate of the strike.

    “There’s a monumental progress made towards the resolution of our demand. Those attempts have been on the instance of the Minister of Education pursuant to which a directive has been issued to the non-compliant institutions to do so. Subsequent to it, we have had a fruitful discussion with the Vice Chancellors and they have pledged their commitment to abide by the conditions of the role over.

    “It is in respect of these progressive moves by the Vice Chancellors and national stakeholders that is why we have decided to suspend the strike. Suspend in the sense that we have some summons from the NLC. We do not know what is the view of the Commission whether or not the invitation is strictly on the reasons for our intended strike action or an addendum to our issues.”

  • NLC directs UG to engage senior staff, TEWU over unpaid market premiums

    NLC directs UG to engage senior staff, TEWU over unpaid market premiums

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has instructed the University of Ghana (UG) management to enter into discussions with the Senior Staff Association and the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) regarding the outstanding market premium arrears owed to their members.

    There has been a threat from these groups to go on strike if the management does not settle the interim market premium arrears dating from 2010 to 2018. While the management has initiated payments, the meeting aims to ensure that they adhere to the agreed-upon plan for clearing these arrears.

    President of the Senior Staff Association, Isaac Donkor, stated in an interview with Citi News that discussions with the university’s management regarding the outstanding payments are set to commence on December 14.

    “We are going to discuss how many of the six years they are willing to pay and when they are going to pay that. So, in the interim, our members are also on standby for us to report to them. If the members are okay with the engagement with the NLC, then the leadership will also be okay with it. However, if the members are not comfortable with the engagement, then we will strike.”

  • NLC and Mortuary workers fail to agree on wages, conditions of service

    NLC and Mortuary workers fail to agree on wages, conditions of service

    The meeting held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, in Accra between the Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG), the government, and the National Labour Commission (NLC) concluded without a resolution.

    This meeting was prompted by the association’s recent threat of industrial action if concerns related to the workers’ conditions of service, such as low wages, poor working conditions, and a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), were not addressed.

    MOWAG is urging the government to implement the agreed-upon conditions of service reached in 2020. Richard Kofi Jordan, the General Secretary of the Ghana Mortuary Workers Association, mentioned in an interview with Citi News that the government had set a timeline for payments to be made, running from December 4 to December 29.

    He further stated that another meeting is scheduled between the association, the NLC, and the government on December 13, 2023, to finalize payment modalities for its members.

    “The decision is still on standby. We are supposed to come to the commission on the 13th of December again because the government says it has provided guidelines regarding the payment of allowances… If we haven’t received anything by the 29th, and it goes into another year, then we will proceed with our plans.”

    “We will urge them to do the needful. If they have stated that they will do it at this time, they should do it because it is long overdue.”

    Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has provided specific timelines for the implementation of the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG).

  • NLC meets mortuary workers today over pending strike

    NLC meets mortuary workers today over pending strike

    The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) leadership is scheduled to engage in discussions with the National Labour Commission (NLC) today in anticipation of its members’ upcoming indefinite strike.

    The decision to strike, according to the association, is a result of the unresolved grievances raised by its members. MOWAG is specifically urging the government to fulfill the conditions of service that were mutually agreed upon in 2020.

    General Secretary of MOWAG, Richard Kofi Jordan, expressed concerns in an interview with Citi News on Tuesday, stating that the government has not demonstrated sufficient commitment to addressing the workers’ concerns so far.

    “We have a meeting with the NLC at 11 am at the NLC’s office. We are trying to respect the law by going to the commission in the morning because we want to see what the Ministry or, for that matter, the government is bringing on board finally to the table. Then we are able to decide whether we should put Ghanaians through this mess or not. We don’t go into these things in bad faith, or we cannot take an entrenched position. If whatever they present is worthy of taking home, why not?”

    “We are not interested in putting Ghanaians through hell. The only reason we are doing this is that we are fed up with the commitments of ‘we will do that,’ and it is not happening,” he stated.

  • NLC, TUC call for nationwide strike against Tinubu’s govt

    NLC, TUC call for nationwide strike against Tinubu’s govt

    Nigeria’s two largest labor unions, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have instructed their members to commence an indefinite nationwide strike and stay at home starting Tuesday, defying a court order prohibiting such action.

    The protest is in response to the escalating cost of living and a surge in fuel prices.

    The unions have been urging President Bola Tinubu to reverse the elimination of the longstanding petrol subsidy, which had maintained low fuel prices but was deemed financially draining by the government. The government asserted that the funds saved would be redirected towards social projects.

    Central to their demands, the unions are calling for an increase in the minimum monthly wage to at least $120 (£97), denouncing some of the government’s economic policies as “anti-people.”

    The strike will remain until “governments at all levels wake up to their responsibilities”, TUC President Festus Osifo said in a statement.

    The strike announcement comes in the wake of a recent restraining order by an industrial court in the capital, Abuja, theoretically barring the unions from initiating the strike.

    The duration of the strike remains uncertain, but it is anticipated to impact crucial services in hospitals, railway stations, and schools in Africa’s largest economy.

  • CETAG calls off strike after NLC directive

    CETAG calls off strike after NLC directive

    The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has decided to halt their ongoing strike following the results of a voting process conducted on Sunday.

    This resolution stems from the majority’s plea to bring an end to the strike action. Out of the 46 colleges of Education, 32 voted in favor of suspending the strike, constituting a significant majority at 69.57%.

    On the other hand, the remaining 14 colleges of Education, making up 30.43% of the voting members, opted to continue the strike.

    In line with the majority’s choice, CETAG has officially declared the suspension of their strike, effective from Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

    This comes after the National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed the College of Education Teachers Association of Ghana to call off its strike and appear before the Commission for a hearing.

    The Association failed to appear before the NLC on Wednesday, August 02, 2023, for hearing on their industrial action.

    Nonetheless, CETAG has emphasized that they will closely oversee the Ministry of Education’s progress in implementing all the Arbitral Awards. Should the Ministry fail to fulfill these obligations by October 31, 2023, CETAG retains the right to reassess their position and take appropriate measures.

    In light of these developments, all CETAG members are expected to resume their duties no later than Thursday, September 7, 2023.

    This decision to suspend the strike brings relief to many, enabling the resumption of academic activities and the restoration of normalcy in the colleges of Education.

  • CETAG vows to remain at home until govt enforces NLC directive

    The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has asserted that it will not end its strike until the government fulfills the terms and conditions of service that were previously agreed upon.

    Commencing on August 1, CETAG launched the strike, attributing it to the government’s non-compliance with the NLC’s Arbitral Award Orders and the negotiated terms of service since May 2, 2023.

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) on Monday directed the government to immediately implement the agreed-upon terms of the conditions of service with the Association as the prolonged strike continues to disrupt the education sector.

    Government is yet to comment on the NLC’s directive and implementation roadmap.

    But the national president of the Association, Prince Obeng Himah in an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM said the only thing that will get them to return to the lecture halls is assurance that they will be paid at the end of the month.

    “We expect the government to as soon as possible implement our condition of service and no evidence will be stronger than seeing a validation that will guarantee us that we are going to get paid at the end of the month and if we can see that we have been validated to be paid the all-year-round compensation that we asked for, if there is that assurance that our members are going to get the fifteen days leave, if there is that assurance, there are concrete steps being taken to show how the staff audit report is going to be implemented, then we will gladly go back to the lecture halls.”

    Mr. Himah further commended the NLC’s directive calling it a win for the rule of law.

    “I must say that what happened on Wednesday is a victory for the rule of law, and it seeks to validate our position that the National Labour Commission must always exist to protect the labour interest of both employers and employees and I commend them for the statement that they have made, and we are going to stay home and wait for government to come out with a complete thing, and then we move forward.”

  • NLC calls on govt to sanction CETAG for ongoing unlawful strike

    Executive Secretary of the National Labour Commission, Ofosu Asamoah, has urged the government to take disciplinary action against individuals affiliated with the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) for participating in an illegal strike.

    Since August 1, members of CETAG from all 46 training colleges have been engaged in a strike, citing the government’s non-compliance with the National Labour Commission’s Arbitral Award and the negotiated terms of service established since May 2, 2023.

    Despite multiple notifications conveyed to the Ministry of Finance, the mutually agreed-upon negotiations have not been put into effect, resulting in an ongoing deadlock.

    In an interview on Eyewitness News, Mr Asamoah opined that CETAG members must be penalized for embarking on illegal strikes, and lambasted them for failing to rescind their decision when they were advised to do so.

    “The Commission has told you, don’t go, and you went, and it says stop what you are doing, and you say you won’t. Defying the orders of the Commission is an unlawful act. The Commission will have to resort to the court to compel them to go back to the classrooms if they still proceed on the strike. And then their employers will also have the right to punish them for proceeding with this illegal strike. Two wrongs do not make a right. The fact that the employer was in default doesn’t mean that you should also do that,” he told sit-in host of Eyewitness News, Selorm Adonoo.

    The Deputy Minister of Education in Charge of Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Gifty Twum Ampofo, has made a passionate appeal to CETAG to reconsider their ongoing strike action and engage in meaningful negotiations with the government to resolve their concerns.

    CETAG and NLC are expected to engage on August 16.

  • Conditions of Service: NLC to meet CETAG August 16

    Conditions of Service: NLC to meet CETAG August 16

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has adjusted its meeting schedule with the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) to Wednesday, August 16, 2023.

    This decision follows a request from CETAG to postpone the initially planned meeting, which was slated for today, August 9, 2023.

    CETAG cited the unavailability of its leaders as the reason for the request.

    CETAG’s ongoing strike, which commenced on August 1, has been prompted by the government’s failure to fulfill the agreed-upon terms of their service conditions.

    In response to CETAG’s postponement request, the NLC reached out to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, the Ministry of Education, and other pertinent stakeholders to inform them of the date change.

    Under the authority vested in it by section 139 of the Labour Act, the Commission has directed CETAG to immediately suspend their strike action.

    CETAG’s strike had been initiated to demand the disbursement of outstanding allowances owed to its members.

  • CETAG directed to call off strike by NLC

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has instructed the College of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) to halt its strike and appear before the Commission for a scheduled hearing.

    This directive came about as the leadership of CETAG failed to attend the NLC hearing on Wednesday, August 02, 2023, regarding their ongoing industrial action.

    The NLC has further mandated CETAG to present themselves before the Commission on the upcoming Wednesday, August 09, 2023.

    Emphasizing the ongoing engagements, the Commission emphasized that CETAG should terminate its industrial action.

    According to the NLC, prior to the scheduled hearing, CETAG’s leadership communicated to the Commission that they had no issues with the NLC and therefore wouldn’t be appearing before it.

    Beginning August 1, 2023, the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana initiated an indefinite industrial strike due to the government’s failure to implement the “negotiated” conditions of service for their members.

    In 2021, CETAG and the Government, facilitated by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), engaged in prolonged negotiations over fresh terms of service for CETAG members.

    This compelled the National Labour Commission (NLC) to step in with Compulsory Arbitration following CETAG’s strike in January 2023.

    At the culmination of the Compulsory Arbitration, the NLC issued an Arbitral Award Order on May 2, 2023, granting CETAG members new conditions of service effective from January 1, 2023.

    The Association affirmed that after the NLC’s Compulsory Arbitral Award, the parties officially endorsed the negotiation agreement, which the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) conveyed to the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on May 26, 2023, for approval and implementation.

    They asserted that despite their letters to the Ministry requesting immediate implementation of the negotiated terms, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) did not act on the FWSC’s letter along with the NLC’s Arbitral Orders.

    In response to the apparent inaction, the Association’s members chose to withdraw their services from all 46 Colleges of Education, effective Monday, July 31, 2023, if the government did not honor the mutually agreed-upon negotiations.

  • Physician Assistants Association temporarily suspends strike

    Physician Assistants Association temporarily suspends strike

    The Ghana Physician Assistants Association has decided to temporarily suspend its indefinite strike, pending the outcome of a 28-day ultimatum given by the National Labour Commission to the Ministry of Health concerning their demands.

    The strike was initiated to protest a proposed legislation that would subject physician assistants to supervision by the Medical and Dental Council, a move feared to disempower the members.

    National President of the association, Peter Akuduge Ayamba, made it clear that if the ministry fails to address their concerns satisfactorily within the given time frame, they will resume their strike action.

    “The National Labour Commission heard us and have directed that within 28 days they should engage us and report to them on how to address the concerns that we have raised. We are not happy as an association with the posture of the government and the fact that they have been dragging their legs all this while. It was because of that that’s why we are where we are now.”

    “And we are saying that based on the ruling and the intervention of the labour commission and the fact that we are law-abiding citizens and unions for that matter, we are calling on our membership to resume work. Because we are temporarily calling off this strike so that we will explore all other options if by the deadline that has been given by the labour commission nothing is done,” he stated.

    The National Labour Commission’s intervention prompted the association to temporarily call off the strike and explore other options if necessary.

    These options include going back to their strike action or adopting a work-to-rule policy, which entails strictly adhering to their prescribed duties without additional efforts.

    The association remains vigilant and committed to protecting their interests, and they will reassess their stance based on the government’s response to their demands after the 28-day period expires.

    “So we are saying that we will explore all other interventions which include our non-renewal position that we took that with their intervention we had to come back. We are also exploring the possibility of working to rule policy which means that we will do according to what we are supposed to do, nothing more nothing less,” he said.

  • Sunon Asogli issued 24-hour ultimatum to decide on sacked union executives

    Sunon Asogli issued 24-hour ultimatum to decide on sacked union executives

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has given Sunon Asogli Power Limited a deadline of Wednesday, August 2, to reach a final decision regarding the demand for the reinstatement of three dismissed union executives from the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

    Sunon Asogli’s refusal to reinstate the union leaders has disappointed the TUC, as they believe the terminations were wrongful. In response, the National Labour Commission has intervened and demanded a prompt resolution to the matter by Wednesday, August 2.

    On July 10, 2023, the union initiated a strike, but it was later called off after the Council of State intervened, requesting more time to engage stakeholders and resolve the issue amicably.

    During the National Executive Council Meeting of the Ghana Mineworkers Union of TUC, Joshua Ansah, the Deputy Secretary-General of TUC, emphasized that the outcome of the meeting would determine their next course of action.

    He reassured everyone that the strike was suspended, not abandoned, and could be reactivated at any time. The demand remains that the three dismissed union executives must be reinstated.

    “The strike was suspended and not abandoned, anything that has been suspended can be reactivated at any time. Don’t get sad that we have suspended it, we want to assure you that our demand is that our three brothers will have to be reinstated. Last Wednesday, myself, the deputy, secretary general, met with the National Labour Commission, upon invitation. And they have given the management of Sunon Asogli tomorrow August 2 to make a decision,” he said.

    Joshua Ansah also mentioned a recent meeting with the National Labour Commission, during which they granted Sunon Asogli until August 2 to make a decision.

    Meanwhile, Abdul Moomin Gbana, the General Secretary of the Ghana Mine Workers Union of TUC, urged the Council of State to promptly address their concerns and work towards a resolution.

    “In the interest of peace and harmony, we would like to remind the Council of State and by extension the government about the commitments made to Organized Labour, to peacefully resolve the matter. And therefore, urge them to prioritise the resolution of the matter without any delay,” Abdul Moomin Gbana stated.


    He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the peaceful resolution of the matter without any delays, in the interest of peace and harmony.

  • Bolga Technical University faces closure over retirement benefits

    Bolga Technical University faces closure over retirement benefits

    The Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU) Branch of the Technical University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has raised concerns about the implementation of the new retirement benefit component in their conditions of service.

    Due to alleged ambiguity in the interpretation, the TUTAG-BTU branch has threatened to embark on an industrial action starting from July 31, 2023.

    The management of BTU seeks clarification on the end-of-service benefit (ESB) clause for Technical Universities to determine whether they should proceed with the payment of retirement benefits for the TUTAG-BTU branch.

    However, the TUTAG-BTU branch contends that Article 16 of the conditions of service clearly outlines the criteria for ESB, requiring payment after ten years of continuous service or upon reaching voluntary or compulsory retirement age, or in the event of death while in service.

    They also refer to Section 42, Clause 6 of the Technical Universities Act, 2016, Act 922 (As Amended), which unequivocally addresses the ESB for employees of polytechnics transitioning to Technical Universities.

    Having served letters to the National Labour Commission (NLC) and the Vice Chancellor of BTU, the TUTAG-BTU branch insists on adhering to the interpretation enshrined in the Technical Universities Act and calls for immediate commencement of ESB payments based on the approved conditions of service, similar to other Technical Universities in the country.

    Failure to comply with their demands may result in a strike action beginning on July 31, 2023.

  • CETAG ordered to stop intended strike

    CETAG ordered to stop intended strike

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has instructed the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) to refrain from its planned strike.

    The NLC stated in a letter dated July 11, 2023 and written to CETAG that the subject has already been determined and that failure to implement will result in Commission enforcement.

    The Colleges of Education Teachers Association (CETAG) has given notice that they would be leaving the 46 public colleges of education on Tuesday, August 1st, 2023.

    The government has until July 31, 2023 to implement the stipulated allowances, according to the Association.

    “Together with the one-off payment of one month’s basic salary based on CETAG’s salary grade as compensation for additional duty performed in 2022 payable to tutors per the NLC’s Arbitral Award ORDER given on 2nd May 2023,” the National President of CETAG, Mr. Prince Obeng-Himan stated in a press release dated July 10, 2023.

    He added that their decision was forced by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission’s (FWSC) “deliberately prolonged” negotiation of their working conditions.

  • NLC directs FWSC to reinstate GBC staff allowances

    NLC directs FWSC to reinstate GBC staff allowances

    The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has been ordered by the National Labour Commission (NLC) to overturn a decision to block the allowances of certain GBC employees.

    This follows weeks of protests and threats of industrial strike action by the workers.

    According to Sam Nat Kevor, the Divisional Union Chairman of GBC, the affected allowances which include rent, housing, utility, vehicle maintenance and transportation, must be restored since inflation keeps rising and therefore the withdrawal of such allowances will worsen the cost of living.

    However, the FWSC Boss, Ben Arthur insists the initiative forms part of its nationwide payroll monitoring exercise with the Internal Audit Agency.

    He explained that as part of the payroll monitoring exercise, it had been discovered that some staff of GBC are currently enjoying allowances that they are not entitled to.

    Mr Arthur said the commission exists to ensure better working conditions for workers and will not compromise.

    But during a hearing of a complaint tabled before it by the FWSC over the pending strike by the staff of GBC, the NLC described the FWSC’s directive as unlawful.

    Subsequently, the Commission has given the FWSC a 14-day ultimatum to reverse its decision to strike out the allowances in question and restore all deductions made from the salaries of GBC staff.

    Background 

    The FWSC began payroll auditing in April this year. Two weeks ago, the FWSC audited the payroll of the staff of GBC over some allowances which, it said, some staff did not deserve.

    It, therefore, wrote to the CAGD to stop the payment of the allowances and allow the affected staff to refund the money. The GBC unionised staff cautioned against the directive, but the CAGD carried it through. 

    Recounting the genesis of what led to the deductions by the FWSC, the divisional union chairman said these allowances were negotiated as “per our collective agreement and senior management staff condition of service.”

    He said the last negotiation by the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiation Committee (PSJNC) occurred on August 26, 2019, with the effective payment date being January 1, 2020.

    He said, “The disposition of the CEO of the FWSC began with the negotiation for our category two and three non-core allowances which started smoothly in 2021 with the then CEO, Dr Edward Kwapong until Mr Arthur took over in the latter part of 2022.”

    The posture of Mr Arthur, according to Mr Kevor, was clearly manifested in the number of times negotiations had to be adjourned. 

    Negotiations

    Mr Kevor alleged that Mr Arthur deliberately delayed forwarding the outcome of the negotiations to the Ministry of Finance for onward transfer to the CAGD.

    He said in spite of the intervention from the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Mr Arthur still delayed for four months until he finally forwarded the signed agreement to the Ministry of Finance.

    Mr Kevor, who wore red headgear and was flanked by the Chairman of the Senior Management Union, Alhaji Abdul Razak Tahiru, and a member of the Local Trustee, Mr Abraham Osekre, said a meeting convened by the Minister of Information and the CEO of FWSC to seek a resolution to the impasse could not yield any result as Mr Arthur claimed that the collective agreement of GBC had expired and also the allowances had been revised under the Single Spine Salary Scheme.

    He said in spite of efforts to prevent the deductions and to meet him, Mr Arthur went ahead and directed the CAGD to remove the allowances of GBC workers. 

  • JUSAG summoned over decision to strike

    JUSAG summoned over decision to strike

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has summoned the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghan (JUSAG) to discuss the latter’s decision to strike.

    They are to appear before the Commission on Wednesday, May 10 at 11:30 AM for a hearing of their issues.

    “With this intervention, the union is directed to stay any and/or intended actions and appear as scheduled,” the NLC said.

    JUSAG had given the government up to Friday, May 12, within which to “approve and pay our new salaries with all arrears from January to May 2023 failing which we shall resort to industrial action”.

    According to JUSAG, no word was heard from President Akufo-Addo on members’ new salaries as of close of Friday, May 5.

    “At this moment, we had to say, ‘enough is enough’,” a notice to members on Friday said.

    “We can’t bear it any longer. Our industrial action plans have been activated.”

    According to the notice, the National Labour Commission (NLC) has been duly notified on the intention to proceed on strike in accordance with Sections 159-161 of the Ghana Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

    If the government does not respond favourably by Friday, May 12, all staff of the Judicial Service will wear red armbands from Monday, May 15 “and that shall continue for one week”.

    The notice issued by JUSAG General Secretary, Abdulai Yakubu said a full-blow strike will be declared from Monday, May 22 if within the preceding week government does not address their grievances.

    “Our indefinite strike shall remain in force, until we have the approval and payment of the new salaries with all the arrears from January to May 2023.”

  • NLC summons NEDCo employees over calls for MD’s dismissal

    NLC summons NEDCo employees over calls for MD’s dismissal

    The Northern Electricity Company Ltd (NEDCo) personnel has been called to a meeting by the National Labour Commission (NLC) as a result of a complaint from the Ministry of Energy.

    The complaint was filed after some aggrieved staff of NEDCo petitioned the Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, demanding the removal of their Managing Director, Osman Aludiba Ayuba.

    The staff argued that the financial performance of the energy distribution company has worsened since his assumption of office in 2019.

    The staff accused the MD of lacking a clear strategy for the company and quoting an exorbitant contract sum for a sole source procurement of point-of-sale devices and also worsening distribution losses of the company.

    In protest to demand the MD’s removal, the staff has partially withdrawn their services in their operational areas.

    William Kwame Asare, the Senior Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of NEDCo said they were ready to rally behind a common goal to uplift NEDCo but until then, they will not call off their partial withdrawal of services.

    Meanwhile, the Managing Director in an interview with Citi News denied all the allegations levelled against him.

    He appealed to the staff to allow the Board of the Company to attend to their concerns and not run to the media as they are currently doing.

  • Public university workers remain on strike after continued stalemate

    An attempt to get the striking public university workers union to rescind their decision could not be achieved at a meeting between the National Labour Commission (NLC) and the unions on Wednesday.

    According to the Secretary of the University of Ghana chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), Prof. Ransford Gyampo, it was revealed at the meeting that the Finance Ministry has a key role to play in addressing their concerns.

    He added that the process may delay following the ongoing probe of the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, following a motion of censure against the minister in Parliament.

    Speaking to Citi News after the engagement, Prof. Gyampo disclosed that the meeting has been rescheduled to be held in the next ten days.

    “We have brought this proposal to the National Labour Commission, and they have also sort of agreed that we should wait and go on with the discussion in the next 10 days.”

    The other unions on strike are the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG) and Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA).

    The strike by the four unions in public universities is in its sixth week.

    UTAG’s concerns, for example, are with the adjusted ex-pump rate of GHS10.99 being implemented to affect Vehicle Maintenance and Off-Campus Allowances.

    The union has complained that the agreed Conditions of Service of University Workers by the Employer were not being adhered to.

  • Striking public university workers to meet NLC today

    The leadership of striking public university worker unions will today, Wednesday meet the National Labour Commission (NLC) to continue ongoing negotiations about their conditions of service.

    The unions on strike are the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG) and Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA).

    The strike by the four unions in public universities has entered its 6th week, forcing some academic activities on various campuses to be at a standstill.

    UTAG’s concerns, for example, are with the adjusted ex-pump rate of GHS10.99 being implemented to affect Vehicle Maintenance and Off-Campus Allowances.

    The union has complained that the agreed Conditions of Service of University Workers by the Employer were not being adhered to.

    Speaking to Citi News ahead of the meeting with NLC today, National Secretary of the UTAG Dr. Asare Asante Annor said they are hopeful today’s meeting will yield the desired results.

    “The issue in contention is still about the variation of our conditions of service and as we speak, we have made certain offers to the government, but we have not received the same from them.”

    “Until the vehicle maintenance and off-campus allowance and the ex-pump rate of GHS10.99 is used, unfortunately, we still have to be on strike,” Dr. Annor said.

    The government has recently appealed to striking workers pushing for improved conditions of service to consider the current economic crisis.

  • NLC calls for funding and logistical support

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has appealed to labour unions and other well-meaning Ghanaians and organisations to support the commission with funds, fuel and other logistics.

    According to the Executive Secretary, Ofosu Asamoah, the NLC has not received its budgetary allocation for 2022 though the year is almost over.

    He told Alfred Ocansey on 3FM Sunrise Morning Show that the commission is understaffed with about sixty-nine (69) workers and only one lawyer who handles about one hundred and twenty (120) cases per month nationwide.

    Mr. Asamoah also mentioned that if the government is not funding the commission, then it is imperative for labour unions, employers, and Ghanaians as a whole to take it up and fund the NLC just as some are contributing to the funding of the National Cathedral.

    “People donate to the police, people contribute to other projects within their communities, why can’t we the workers who are likely to suffer injustices, wrongful dismal, unpaid salary and poor conditions of work contribute to the National Labour Commission?” Ofosu Asamoah quizzed

    He admitted that NLC is 100% GOG funded but, however, workers are the ultimate beneficiaries of the work of the commission. They often petition and seek justice hence it is important for workers to ensure the effective running of the commission.

    “The government is most of the time the respondent. The cases come from workers who are underpaid, from the media to the fuel pump attendant. Hardly does the government come against the workers, and at the end of the day, it is the individual workers who are the ultimate beneficiaries of our work” Mr. Asamoah noted.

    The National Labour Commission is established under Part XVIII of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) to regulate the employment relationship in Ghana. Currently the commission handles an average of 120 labour cases monthly.

     

     

  • Teacher unions call off strike after NLC secures injunction

    The industrial action embarked on by teachers in pre-tertiary institutions has finally been called off.

    The strike came to an abrupt end after the National Labour Commission (NLC) secured a restraining order from the court against them on Friday, November 11.

    After the court’s ruling, the President of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), Angel Carbonu, ordered  all teachers to go back to their posts from Monday, November 14, 2022.

    “We have decided to obey the orders of the court and have asked our members to call off the strike and to go back to the classroom. We can’t disrespect the court order. To that end, we are telling all our members to resume work on Monday. Every teacher should go to work on Monday,” Mr Cabornu, told the media.

    The three Teacher Unions – the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT),  the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana—have been on strike since November 4, 2022.

    The group’s industrial action was fuelled by the appointment of Dr Eric Nkansah as the new Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES).

    According to them, Dr Nkansah is not fit to head GES.

    They contended that the new GES Director-General does not have a teaching background.

    Meanwhile, despite the injunction, Mr Carbonu has disclosed that the teachers will continue their engagements with the government for the removal of Dr Nkansah.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • NLC orders teacher unions to call off strike

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) has ordered the three teacher unions to immediately call off their strike and continue negotiations with the government.

    The Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations referred the impasse between them and the striking unions to the NLC due to the refusal of the Teacher Unions to call off their strike.

    The Teacher Unions declared a sit-down strike on Friday, November 4, to protest the appointment of Dr Eric Nkansah as the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service.

    The unions said Dr Nkansah was a banker and not a professional teacher, hence their call for his removal.

    The Unions are the Ghana National Association of Teachers, the National Association of Graduate Teachers and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana.

    The strike has hampered academic work at pre-tertiary institutions.

    Education Minister Yaw Adutwum and Dr Eric Nkansah

    The Deputy Employment Minister, Dr Bright Wereko Brobby, speaking to the Media after the meeting, said the Unions did not follow the right channels before declaring the strike and have been ordered to resume work and properly engage the government for a resolution to their demands.

    The teacher unions expressed their unhappiness and unwillingness to work with the new GES D-G and called on the government to rescind its decision.

     

  • Teacher unions to meet NLC today over strike for removal of GES Boss

    The leadership of the three teacher unions on strike will today, Wednesday, November 9, 2022, meet the National Labour Commission (NLC) to arrive at ways to resolve their concerns.

    This comes on the back of a decision by the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations to refer the impasse between the government and the striking unions to the NLC.

    The teacher unions declared a sit-down strike on November 4, in protest of the appointment of Dr. Eric Nkansah as the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES).

    Speaking to Citi News, the President of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), Angel Carbonu said the unions were summoned by the NLC hence the need to honour the invitation.

    “The NLC has invited us to meet which means we have been summoned so absolutely, we shall be there.”

    The National Labour Commission says it is hopeful the matter will be resolved after hearing from the teacher unions and government.

    “We will try to resolve the matter at our level. We are capable of handling it so by close of day today, there is likely to be a resolution”, says Eyram Dotse Totimeh, the Head of Public Affairs at NLC.

    Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Child Rights International, Bright Appiah, says the teacher unions must resort to other ways to channel their grievances to the government. He argues that embarking on a strike is not the best option.

    “If there is any other way you can use to get your grievances across to the appointing authority, then you can do so, but to use only use strike to get to government which affects our children, we must give consideration to that. There are other avenues they can get to government to decide whether that appointment should hold.”

    The three unions on strike are the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers, Ghana (CCT).

    The unions have been engaging with the government since the strike began, but the meetings have been inconclusive.

     

     

  • TUSAAG threatens strike, accuses NLC of complacency in performing its functions

    Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) has served notice to embark on strike action on July 31, 2021, over poor conditions of service, non-payment of Tier II pension contributions of TUSAAG members, among others.

    This comes barely 48 hours after the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) suspended their strike action following assurances from the Education Minister, Dr Yaw Adutwum, to resolve similar concerns.

    In January 2020, both TUTAG and TUSAAG declared a strike action but were compelled to return to work after the National Labour Commission (NLC) secured an interlocutory injunction from a High Court in Accra to oblige the associations to suspend the strike action.

    In an interview on Radio Univers’ morning show, Campus Exclusive, President of TUSAAG, Edem Honu, stated that “very little” has been done to help address their concerns over a year on.

    He accused the NLC of complacency in getting the government and other stakeholders to implement agreements reached when it suspended its strike in 2020.

    “..the National Labour Commission duly asked us to suspend our strike which we did [in 2020] and government and its institutions were also to take particular actions to resolve some of the issues that we raised at that time. But what we have observed over the period is that the National Labour Commission has not been exertive on the institutions that were supposed to perform their roles and so very little have been done over the period,” TUSAAG President, Edem Honu bemoaned.

    Further speaking, he added that members of the association are keenly interested in the matter and are demanding the government to expedite action to fix the issues.

    “It is not good that employees will be working without conditions that guide their mode of the work,” he emphasized.

    Mr Honu opined that the association has given the government a thirty-eight-day ultimatum for their concerns to be addressed but in case it fails TUSAAG will declare a nationwide strike.

    “If by 31st July 2021, the issues are still lingering without any definite timelines as to how we would be sorted out then when Congress meets, we would have no other option than to go ahead and declare a strike,” he warned.

    Source: universnewsroom.com

  • Government to pay allowances of TUTAG members by January 29

    The National Labour Commission (NLC) will facilitate the payment of salaries and allowances of six Technical Universities, who submitted their data to the National Council for Tertiary Education on January 29, 2020.

    According to a statement signed and copied to the Ghana News Agency by Mr Andy Kwabena Asamoah, the Chairman for the NLC, the remaining two Technical Universities, Sunyani and Tamale, who are yet to submit their data, are to do so by January 17, 2020.

    TUTAG strike hits hard at KTU, students beg for government intervention

    This would enable government to facilitate the payment of their salaries and allowances at the end of February 2020.

    The Commission through the statement directed TUTAG to call off its strike with immediate effect and return to work.

    “The parties are further directed to continue negotiations on the outstanding issues in good faith,” it said.

    According to the statement, the NLC on Thursday, January 10, 2020, met representatives of TUTAG, the Ministries of Finance, Employment and Labour Relations, and Education, the Fair Wages and Salary Commission, and the Controller and Accountant General Department to negotiate the outstanding issue.

    Go to court and enforce your ruling against Government TUTAG to NLC

    The TUTAG earlier declared an indefinite strike effective January 6, 2020, in protest of the non-payment of allowances due its members following the conversion of polytechnics to technical universities.

    Source: Ghananewsagency.org