TEWU, Sunayani Poly branch demonstrates

Sunyani (B/A), Jan 31, GNA - Sunyani Polytechnic branch of Tertiary Education Workers Union (TEWU) on Tuesday marched through the principal streets of the regional capital and later presented a petition to the Brong-Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council for redress by government. The action by the workers was part of the nationwide demonstration organised by the Union.

Led by Mr Kwabena Buah, branch chairman, the demonstrators wore red bands and held placards some of which read, "Give us our bread", "We are on a timing bomb", "Yesterday was a better day" and "We cannot tighten the belt any longer" as they marched amidst brass band music. A resolution signed by Mr Buah said there had been a persistent refusal of government to grant mandate to the Conference of Polytechnic Principals to negotiate the Collective Bargaining Agreement, which expired in January 2004.

The workers warned in the resolution that they would embark on a nationwide strike with effect from Friday, February 3, this year, if the government refused to give the mandate to the Conference to negotiate a new agreement.

Mr Francis Boateng, Coordinating Director, who received the resolution on behalf of the Council, advised the union to exercise patience and assured that the resolution would be forwarded to the appropriate quarters.

He implored the union not to lay down their tools, since the government would take the necessary action on the matter.