PAPNG secures injunction against implementation of GRNMA's collective agreement

The High Court, Labour Division, has granted an ex parte injunction in favour of the Professional Association of Psychiatric Nurses of Ghana (PAPNG) against the implementation of the collective agreement negotiated by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), which was set to commence on July 1, 2024.

The injunction was obtained against the following parties:

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association

Fair Wages and Salaries Commission

The Controller and Accountant General

The Minister for Finance

The Attorney General

The court's decision effectively halts the implementation of the collective agreement negotiated by GRNMA, highlighting that PAPNG and other unions, such as the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives, Ghana (UPNMG), were excluded from the negotiation process, violating statutory requirements.

PAPNG argued that GRNMA's actions breached the Labour Regulations, 2007 (LI 1833), which mandate consultation with all relevant unions during collective bargaining, and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which ensures inclusive and fair representation in collective agreements.

In a statement, PAPNG expressed satisfaction with the ruling, stating that it upholds the principles of fairness and inclusivity in collective bargaining processes, ensuring that the voices of all relevant unions are heard and respected.