Unions Threaten Industrial Action Over Unpaid Allowances
The Senior Staff Association-Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Federation of Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG), and the Teachers and Educational Workers Union of Trade Union Congress (TEWU-TUC) have issued a stern warning to the government: honor your promises and pay our members their rightful allowances, or face industrial action.
In a press statement released yesterday, August 5th, the unions expressed their frustration and disappointment with the government's failure to pay their members' Vehicle Maintenance Allowance (VMA) and other related allowances, despite reaching an agreement with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission on June 26, 2024.
"We have been patient, but our patience has worn thin," said the unions. "It's time for the government to honor its promises and pay our members the allowances they deserve."
The unions recalled that they had given the government notice of their intention to take industrial action on June 21, 2024, if the Commission failed to rectify the injustice meted out to their members regarding the VMA and other related allowances. However, the National Labour Commission summoned the parties for a hearing on June 19, 2024, and directed them to engage and report on June 26, 2024.
An agreement was reached, and an addendum signed, but the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission has failed to secure a letter from the Ministry of Finance authorizing payment. This has left union members who are on the Controller and Accountant General's payroll without their rightful allowances, while those in universities on government subvention have already been paid.
The unions believe that the government is using "Machiavellian tactics" to deny them of their agreed-upon allowances. "It's unacceptable that the government would renege on its promises and leave our members in limbo," they said.
The unions have given the government until Thursday, August 8, to release the letter, failing which they will be forced to take industrial action on August 9, 2024. "We will not rest until justice is served," they declared. "Our members deserve fair treatment, and we will fight for their rights until the government honors its promises."
This is not just about allowances; it's about the government's commitment to its workers. "If the government can't keep its promises, how can we trust them to do what's right?" asked the unions.
The unions are calling on all their members to stand firm and united in the face of this injustice. "We are not asking for favors; we are demanding what is rightfully ours," they said.
As the deadline approaches, the unions are bracing themselves for a showdown with the government. "We hope it doesn't come to that, but we are prepared to take a stand for our rights," they said.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story. Will the government honor its promises, or will the unions be forced to take strike action? Only time will tell.
Do you have something to say about this pose? Your comment are welcome.