The National Identification Authority (NIA) Division of the Public Services Workers’ Union has announced its intention to embark on an indefinite strike starting March 25, 2024. The union’s decision stems from the management’s failure to implement proposed and submitted allowances to the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. According to the union, members have been denied allowances dating back to July 2008, with unpaid arrears accumulating up to February 2024.
The union is demanding that all outstanding allowances, as outlined in the existing conditions of service, be reflected in the March 2024 pay slip. They cite specific sections of the agreement that support their demands.
If the demands are not met, the union will proceed with the planned industrial action, highlighting the urgency of resolving the long-standing issue of unpaid allowances. Francis Bangfudeme, Divisional Chairman of the union, stated that if their demands are not met, they will proceed on an indefinite strike.
In response to the union’s threat, Dallas Ampomah, the Public Relations Officer of the NIA, has called for a calm and professional approach. He believes that harsh words won’t solve the problem and notes that issues unresolved for 8 years can’t be fixed in 4 months.
Ampomah assures that the NIA is engaging stakeholders to find solutions and urges patience in the process. He emphasizes the need for stakeholders to put aside political sentiments and work towards a resolution.
The union’s decision to go on strike has significant implications for the NIA’s operations and the public’s access to identification services. The strike could disrupt the registration process, affecting citizens’ ability to obtain national identification cards.
The union’s action highlights the need for the NIA management to prioritize the payment of outstanding allowances and engage in meaningful dialogue with the union to resolve the issue.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by public sector workers in Ghana, particularly in relation to unpaid allowances and benefits.
The NIA workers’ union is determined to have their demands met, and the outcome of this standoff will have implications for labor relations in the country. As the strike date approaches, it remains to be seen whether the NIA management will meet the union’s demands or if the strike will proceed as planned.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
