The Health Services Workers’ Union (HSWU) of TUC (Ghana) has issued a strong warning to government over delays in finalising a new Collective Agreement with health agencies under the Ministry of Health, cautioning that members may be forced to take action if negotiations do not conclude by Monday, 11 November 2024.

In a statement issued on Thursday, 7 November 2024, the union expressed mounting frustration among members over the prolonged negotiations.

The talks, which were due for a mandatory review in November 2023, have stalled despite efforts to address essential working conditions amid escalating economic challenges.

As required by law, the union submitted proposals to the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission in November 2023, initiating the discussions. Negotiations formally began in May 2024, but the union states that months of meetings have yet to produce meaningful progress.

“There have been countless meetings with the government team, and we seem not to be making a headway,” the union remarked, highlighting that the lack of progress has left members increasingly agitated.

Setting a deadline, the union made clear its members’ tolerance has worn thin.

“We are giving them up to Monday, November 11, 2024, to get all the outstanding issues resolved to enable the parties conclude and sign the agreement for its implementation,” the union’s statement read.

The HSWU emphasised that finalising the agreement is crucial for alleviating the economic hardships facing health services workers.

Should the government fail to meet the deadline, the union warned, it would take action, saying it would “advise itself in a language that the government best understands.”

Encouraging members to “remain calm and resolute,” union leaders reassured them of their commitment to achieving a fair agreement.