NCCE workers to embark on indefinite strike over delayed allowance negotiations

The Divisional Executive Council (DEC) of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) Division of the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has announced an indefinite strike action set to begin on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.

The decision comes after what the union describes as “unnecessary delay tactics” by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) in negotiations concerning allowances for NCCE staff.

According to the union, the FWSC has failed to continue discussions after the union submitted proposals as far back as May 2023.

In a statement issued by the union intercepted by Starr News, they recalled that despite reminders and consultations, the FWSC has not shown commitment to resolving the matter.

“The Rules of Engagement for the negotiations were discussed on May 6th, 2024. However, the FWSC denied the union’s request for a time frame for completion,” the statement read.

After a seven-day ultimatum issued by the union at the last meeting, the FWSC reconvened on July 23, 2024, but according to the union, the meeting did not yield meaningful progress.

“At the last meeting held on September 4th, 2024, it became clear to the union that the FWSC was not ready to negotiate in good faith and was employing unnecessary delay tactics to frustrate the process,” the statement added.

The union pointed out that other public sector workers have been granted allowances to cushion them against the depreciation of the cedi since 2019, while NCCE staff have been left behind.

“The delay in negotiations since the submission of the proposals, coupled with the actions and inactions of FWSC, has worsened the plight of our members,” the statement noted.

As part of their preparations for the strike, the NCCE union will hoist red flags at all offices and have staff wear red attire and armbands starting Monday, September 16, 2024. “Regional council meetings will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, to brief members on the roadmap for the industrial action,” the union outlined.

The strike will officially begin on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. The union on all staff to actively participate in the strike to press home their demands.

“We encourage all staff to participate actively in these actions to ensure that our demands are met. Solidarity forever!” the statement concluded.