Organized Labour to suspend the nationwide strike action

Organized Labour of Ghana has made the decision to suspend the nationwide strike action that was scheduled to begin on Monday, July 10, 2023.

The strike action was initially called to demand the reinstatement of three union leaders whose appointments were terminated by the Management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd after exercising their constitutional right to join a trade union.

In response to the strike declaration, the National Labour Commission summoned representatives from Organized Labour and the Management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd for a meeting on Tuesday, July 4, 2023.

During the meeting, the management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd requested the Commission’s permission to engage in direct negotiations with Organized Labour to find a resolution to the dispute.

Granting the company’s request, the National Labour Commission directed both parties to appear before it on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, with a report detailing the progress of their deliberations.

After extensive discussions held on Wednesday, July 4, 2023, under the chairmanship of the Honorable Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd expressed its willingness to reinstate the three local union leaders, contingent upon the union leaders submitting letters of apology.

This agreement was subsequently reported to the National Labour Commission later that same day by the Honorable Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, and it was confirmed by both parties involved.

In light of this understanding, the Commission directed both parties to meet on Thursday, July 6, 2023, to finalize the settlement agreement for submission on Wednesday, July 12, 2023.

However, during the meeting to finalize the settlement agreement, to the dismay of the Organized Labour Leadership, the management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd withdrew their earlier offer, stating that they lacked the mandate to commit to the previous agreement.

Recognizing the need for intervention, the Council of State of the Republic of Ghana convened a meeting on Friday, July 7, 2023, with the Organized Labour Leadership to address the matter and facilitate its resolution.

Following discussions with the Council of State, Organized Labour agreed to suspend the planned nationwide strike action.

The decision was made based on the assurances provided by the Council of State and their commitment to assist in finding a resolution to the dispute.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh