The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed the Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) to call off its strike action with immediate effect.

The directive was made on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 when the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) and PSWU appeared before the NLC.

The NLC had summoned the government team led by FWSC with the Ministry of Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions (MELRP)  and Ministry of Finance on one hand, and PSWU on the other hand to appear before it over a labour dispute.

This was after it had received a notice from PSWU dated October 14, 2024 threatening to embark on an industrial action effective Monday, October 21, 2024 over their demands for two institution specific allowances for their members.

The NLC aside ordering PSWU to end its strike further directed the parties to resume negotiations on the two institution specific allowances by October 31, 2024 and communicate the outcome of the meeting to the commission by November 6, 2024.

The Commission directed the parties to negotiate in good faith to address the impasse.

The NLC's intervention aims to facilitate a resolution between the union and the FWSC, ensuring a harmonious industrial relations environment.

The NLC's role in resolving labour disputes is crucial, as mandated by the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651). By ordering the suspension of the strike, the NLC has paved the way for constructive dialogue and negotiation.

Reacting to the NLC’s directives, the Director in charge of Grievances and Negotiations at FWSC, Prof Charles Adabo Oppong,  said "We welcome the NLC's directive and look forward to continuing our engagement with the Public Services Workers Union”.

He said the FWSC was committed to resolving the outstanding issues and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Background

On October 15, 2024 the PSWU  announced its intentions of embarking on an indefinite strike on Monday October 21, 2024, citing among others undue delay on the part of the Government represented by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission to finalise negotiations on two institution specific allowances due its members.