Formal sector workers have suffered the burden and trouble of retiring on meagre allowances
People in the employment class have been urged not to settle for low salaries and bigger allowances as the practice eventually affect their end of service benefit.
This is because SSNIT contributions were computed upon what appeared on the pay slip of a contributor and settling for lower salaries, may contribute to little end of service allowances, lump sum or any other form of benefits.
Mr. Kwamena Okyere Darko-Mensah, the Western Regional Minister said this during the Regional Celebration of May Day on the theme: "Sustainable Pensions for All: The Role of Social Partners".
Often, formal sector workers have suffered the burden and trouble of retiring on meagre allowances from their SSNIT contributions, which was not able to sustain them sufficiently.
The Minister said the government was prepared to liaise with organised labour and all stakeholders concerned to chart a positive course in the labour front.
Mr Samuel Kweku Doughan , the TUC Regional Secretary bemoaned some unfair practices in the labour front and called on the government to retool the Labour commission to undertake regular monitoring within the industry to halt the practices.
"Some workers are denied their annual leave with pay, sick leave with pay and even overtime allowance while some females bear the brunt of unneeded workplace discrimination ", he added.
The TUC Boss said it was about time the government resourced state institutions mandated to promote the welfare of workers to advance compliance or adjudicate on labour issues to ensure a healthy front.
The review of the labour law according to him, had also become critical to reflect on the realities on the ground, saying, “We are submitting a proposal to the tripartite committee for action".
Commenting on SSNIT and pensions allowances, the Regional TUC Boss said out of the over 13 million workers, 11 million did not have access to social security.
He said the low coverage, inadequate pension benefits, discrimination against women were but a few of the challenges facing organised labour, a situation that must be given immediate attention.
"Indeed, organised labour has engaged the Board of SSNIT and we are making good progress", he added.
Workers carried placards some of which read: “Improve rural water supply”, “We want a full contract on the completion of the Western Rail Lines", "No Review, No Meridian Port Services", "GPHA from Meridian Port Services",” Workers Deserve Better" , "10 percent salary increment is not enough" among others.
