News:
May 27, 2015
Government will soon present a policy review to Parliament to regulate strike actions undertaken by workers of public institutions in Ghana.
According to the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu this move when implemented will ensure that strike actions when in force, don’t adversely affect the smooth running of the country.
He is of the view that in as much as workers reserve the constitutional rights to embark on strike actions to back home their demands; they should not do so beyond seventy two hours.
“ It is important that workers return to work between forty eight to seventy two hours after they strike since their long absence from work has dire consequences on productivity which also go a long way in robbing the country of huge revenue, and also has the potential of threatening the lives of ordinary citizens ” Hon. Haruna Iddrisu noted.
Over the years, strike actions especially by health workers has resulted in some patients losing their lives in the process, and it is expected that this policy review will prevent or curb such unfortunate incidents.
The Minister made the statement on the floor of Parliament when answering a question posed by MP for Komenda/Edina/Eguafo/Abrem Dr Nana Ato Arthur on the current status of the Tier 2 Pensions Scheme which has been of major concern to pensioners in particular and Ghanaians workers generally.
Touching on the Tier 2 pensions, he disclosed that government currently owes the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to the tune of GHS288 million.
The Minority in Parliament was quick to point out that per the constitution; employers are required to pay their employees SSNIT contributions within fourteen (14) days.
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu responded by stating that government was in discussion with the Ministry of Finance to fulfill its obligation, adding that nonetheless it was not unusual for governments to owe contributionsof workers social security albeit temporarily.
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