General Secretary of the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers' Union (MELPWU) has stated that the union does not have established conditions of service.

According to Dr Cephas Akortor, there is no document containing the laid-out conditions of service to which members of the union are entitled.

Speaking on JoyNews’ 'The Probe' on June 23, he mentioned that this absence denies workers basic benefits, including insurance services.

MELPWU initiated their strike on June 17, citing the government's delay in addressing their conditions of service.

The industrial action has significantly impacted public health services, leaving patients stranded and forcing many to seek more expensive laboratory services at private facilities.

Although the strike has been temporarily called off, MELPWU is likely to lay down its tools if government fails to meet its demands.

When asked by the host what the union's condition of service was such that the union was asking for improved conditions, he said “In fact we have none. As at now, we do not have a condition of service. Whatever we have is just an extension of what others are enjoying and they feel can apply to us.”

Dr Akortor explained that the nature of their job exposes them to many hazards, as they handle blood samples, urine, and other materials from individuals suffering from various health conditions.

• Read also: Medical laboratory workers suspend strike

Despite this, they do not have an insurance policy covering their healthcare. He recounted that during COVID-19, several union members, often in laboratories conducting tests, contracted the virus, leading to their untimely deaths.

The General Secretary added that in many such instances, family members of MELPWU had to finance their basic healthcare.

• Read also: Striking MELPWU members demand better conditions, decry intimidation

“So, it means that we risk ourselves without an insurance and when you are sick you are left to your fate and if your family can not support you then you die. Already the salary is not good. Laboratory workers deserve to be insured,” he told host, Emefa Apawu on June 23.

This, among several other factors, necessitated their industrial action he said.