By Peter Quao Adattor
The ongoing strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has drawn national attention, raising concerns about healthcare delivery across the country. The Public Affairs Unit of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has provided a detailed breakdown of the situation.
Why are Nurses and Midwives on Strike?
The GRNMA declared a strike on June 4, 2025, citing the government’s delay in implementing the 2024 Conditions of Service. This includes outstanding allowances and improvements in working conditions for members.
Despite a directive from the National Labour Commission (NLC) labelling the strike illegal, the GRNMA insists it will continue industrial action until its demands are met.
Background of the Dispute
- Conditions of Service Agreement:
A Collective Agreement covering the Conditions of Service for GRNMA members was signed on May 20, 2024. - Follow-Up for Implementation:
The FWSC followed up by writing to the Ministry of Finance on July 1, 2024, to facilitate the implementation of the agreement. - Court Intervention:
The process was delayed due to a legal challenge filed by the Psychiatric Nurses Association, a member of GRNMA. - Dispute Resolution:
In February 2025, GRNMA informed the FWSC that the matter had been resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). - Budget Constraints:
By the time the internal issue was resolved, the government’s budget was already at an advanced stage, posing challenges to the immediate implementation of the agreement.
Current Developments
- The NLC declared the strike illegal, citing procedural breaches under the Labour Act.
- Despite this, the GRNMA has refused to call off the strike, significantly affecting healthcare services nationwide.
Government Position and Responses
The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, representing the government, has acknowledged the budgetary limitations but emphasised its commitment to resolving the issue.
A crucial meeting was held between the FWSC and GRNMA on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Ministry of Health, aimed at resolving the ongoing impasse.
Call for Dialogue
During the meeting, the FWSC appealed to the GRNMA to suspend the strike, stressing the importance of dialogue and cooperation.
“We urge all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue in the interest of public health and service continuity,” the FWSC stated.
Impact on Healthcare
The ongoing strike has had a crippling effect on medical services, leaving patients in both urban and rural areas stranded, as essential health personnel continue to stay away from work.
The Way Forward
The FWSC is calling for calm, patience, and constructive engagement to find a mutually beneficial resolution. The government remains hopeful that dialogue will lead to a breakthrough in the coming days.
By Peter Quao Adattor
