The Health Services Workers' Union (HSWU) of the TUC (Ghana) has announced that an understanding has been reached with the government on key aspects of their Collective Agreement.

According to the Union, after delays in the review process, progress was finally achieved, with parties concluding discussions on November 11, 2024.

"We are happy to inform you that, as of yesterday, the 11th of November 2024, the parties concluded the review and have reached some level of understanding on the existing Collective Agreement," a press statement issued by the HSWU on Tuesday stated.

The Union had raised serious concerns regarding delays in finalising the new Collective Agreement with health agencies and facilities under the Ministry of Health.

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In a press statement issued on Thursday, November 7, the union stated that it had submitted proposals to the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission in November 2023 to initiate discussions. Despite this, negotiations, which began in May 2024, were yet to yield results.

The union therefore issued a firm ultimatum to the government, warning that its members' patience has reached its limit.

"We are giving them up to Monday, November 11, 2024, to get all the outstanding issues resolved to enable the parties conclude and sign the agreement for its implementation," the union said.

• Read also: Government denies delay in concluding negotiations with Health Services Workers’ Union

On the back of this, HSWU has extended gratitude to its negotiation team, acknowledging the long hours and sacrifices made to reach this agreement.

The Union called on its leadership and members to closely monitor the implementation of the agreement.

"It is our hope that same will be implemented as agreed," part of the statement read.

The HSWU also expressed appreciation for the support and encouragement from its members during what it described as "challenging times," assuring them that their interests remain a priority.

They promised to provide more details about the agreement to members in due course.