The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) has issued formal notice of its intention to embark on strike action, citing unresolved welfare concerns, alleged bad-faith negotiations, and long-standing human resource challenges within the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

In a press release dated January 5, GhATSEA said the notice was issued in compliance with Sections 159 and 160 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which requires at least seven days’ prior notice before any lawful strike action.

According to the Association, repeated attempts at dialogue, mediation, and arbitration have failed to yield meaningful outcomes, despite assurances from management and the GCAA Board.

GhATSEA President, Engr. David Annan Mensah, said the decision to resort to industrial action was unavoidable, stressing that the Association had consistently demonstrated willingness to negotiate in good faith.

“Regrettably, the meeting between the GhATSEA Executive Council and Management produced no indication of commitment from Management to resolve the legitimate issues placed before them,” he stated.

A major point of contention is what GhATSEA describes as contradictory positions taken by GCAA management regarding the status of its members.

The Association recalled that in 2016, management described its members as non-essential workers before the National Labour Commission (NLC), but is now claiming they are essential workers in the current dispute.

“This raises a fundamental and troubling question: when did we suddenly become essential workers?” the Association asked, arguing that the inconsistency undermines trust and good faith labour relations.

GhATSEA also raised serious concerns about inequitable job placement and salary administration under the supervision of the Director of Human Resources, Mr. Ebenezer Sagoe.

The Association detailed multiple instances between 2012 and 2022 where members with HND and BSc qualifications were allegedly placed on inappropriate staff grades and salary levels, requiring repeated interventions by successive Director-Generals to correct.

It further cited salary distortions, including minimal gaps between some levels and cases where junior staff reportedly earn more than senior colleagues.

The Association is demanding the full implementation of the Dr. Imoro’s Report on salary disparities, immediate action on a promotional needs petition submitted on July 16, 2025, and decisive intervention regarding the conduct of the Director of Human Resources.

GhATSEA warned that if the issues are not fully resolved by January 15, it will “lay down our tools,” adding that unresolved technical and safety personnel matters could affect the integrity of Ghana’s airspace operations.

“It is in the interest of national safety, operational efficiency, and institutional harmony that these matters are treated with the seriousness they deserve,” Engr. Mensah said.