NLC urges CETAG to call off strike, promises enforcement of arbitration award

The National Labour Commission (NLC) has intervened in the ongoing strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), urging the union to call off the industrial action and allow for legal processes.

In a letter, the NLC advised CETAG that the Arbitration Award has been referred to the Legal Department for enforcement, and therefore, the union should halt any industrial action.

“We write to advise CETAG that the Arbitration Award has been referred to the Legal Department for enforcement. The Union is therefore advised to stay any industrial action and allow the legal processes to ensue,” said Dr. Bernice A. Welbeck, Director, Admin/HR, acting for the Executive Secretary of the NLC.

The NLC’s intervention comes after CETAG embarked on a strike due to the government’s failure to comply with the NLC’s arbitral award orders. CETAG has been demanding compliance with the award, which includes the migration of colleges of education to the public university pay structure and payment of compensation to staff.

“We are committed to enforcing the Arbitration Award and resolving this matter amicably,” said Dr. Welbeck. “We urge CETAG to heed our advice and allow the legal processes to ensue.”

CETAG has yet to respond to the NLC’s advice, but sources indicate that the union is considering the commission’s proposal.

“We will review the NLC’s letter and consult with our members before making a decision,” said Prince Obeng-Himah, National President of CETAG. “We are committed to getting justice for our members, and we will not back down until our demands are met.”

The standoff between CETAG and the government continues, with the fate of thousands of students and teachers hanging in the balance.