Call off your strike – NLC as it summons striking NIA workers to appear before it

The Public Services Workers Union - National Identification Authority (PSWU-NIA) has been directed by the National Labour Commission (NLC) to call off their strike.

The NLC issued the directive in a summons dated Monday, June 10, 2024.

According to media reports, the NLC noted that "the Executive Council of the PSWU ordered the indefinite cessation of all services provided by its members at the District Offices, Regional Offices, Headquarters, and Premium Centers, effective Monday, June 10, 2024."

However, it indicated that the strike resulted from the Government's failure to show good faith in the negotiation and implementation of better Conditions of Service for the staff of the NIA, among other issues.

The NLC, therefore, summoned the parties to appear before it on "Wednesday, 12 June 2024, at 11 am for a hearing of the issues in dispute."

It also advised the union to call off the ongoing strike so all parties could appear as scheduled.

Staff of the NIA commenced an indefinite strike on Monday, June 10, 2024, over grievances related to their conditions of service.

This action was announced by the NIA chapter of the Divisional Executive Council of the Public Services Workers' Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

Initially, the Union had planned to strike on March 24 but deferred their decision after meeting with representatives from the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the management of the NIA. Despite this, the Union claims the government has since acted in bad faith during negotiations.

A statement signed by Council Secretary Kwabena Kyeremeh and Council Chairman Bangfudeme Nyuzaghi detailed their concerns, which include:

• The government team's undue delays in the negotiation process.

• The government team's posturing and reluctance to grant the NIA Institution-Specific Allowances.

• Failure on the part of management to implement the approved scheme of service for the staff of the NIA.

The Union has vowed to continue their strike until all their concerns are satisfactorily addressed.