The Ministry of Health has expressed shock and disappointment at the decision by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to embark on industrial action, calling on the Association to rescind its decision in the interest of the Ghanaian patient.

In a statement signed by Ministry spokesperson Tony Goodman, the Ministry said it was surprised by the GRNMA’s directive, especially after what it described as “numerous engagements” between the Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and the Association’s leadership.

According to the Ministry, the government under President John Dramani Mahama has historically prioritised the welfare of health workers, citing the 2015 introduction of the first-ever Conditions of Service for nurses and midwives as a major milestone.

The Ministry noted that since taking office, Minister Akandoh has met with GRNMA leaders on more than five occasions, with the most recent discussions culminating in an agreement to establish a Tripartite Committee involving the Ministries of Health and Finance as well as the GRNMA, to address delays in implementing the reviewed Conditions of Service.

“The reviewed Conditions of Service were scheduled to take effect in 2024 under the previous administration, but implementation was unfortunately delayed,” the statement clarified.

While acknowledging the importance of fair labour practices, the Ministry strongly condemned the use of industrial action as leverage, warning that such actions endanger the lives of patients and undermine ongoing dialogue.

“The Ministry has demonstrated good faith and urges the GRNMA to do the same, in the interest of the nation’s healthcare delivery,” the statement emphasised.

The Ministry is therefore calling on the GRNMA to withdraw its strike directive and allow continued engagement through the agreed committee structure to ensure a peaceful and constructive resolution to the matter.