HSWU Issues Government Ultimatum to Resolve Collective Agreement Negotiations.

Tema: The Health Services Workers Union (HSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the government to address outstanding issues related to the delay in reviewing the union's collective agreement. Mr. Franklin Owusu Ansah, General Secretary of the HSWU, announced the ultimatum during a press conference in Tema, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ansah expressed the frustration of union members, stating that their patience has worn thin. He declared that the government has until Monday, November 11, 2024, to resolve all pending matters, allowing both parties to conclude and sign the agreement. The implementation of the agreement is seen as crucial to alleviating the economic difficulties faced by union members. Mr. Ansah warned that failure to meet this deadline would compel the union to take further action.The collective agreement between the HSWU and Health Agencies and Facilities under the Ministry of Health was scheduled for rev iew in November 2023. As legally required, the union submitted proposals to the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission in November 2023, with the aim of initiating negotiations. However, despite commencing talks in May 2024, the union has been unable to secure a resolution.The union has engaged in numerous meetings with the government team, but progress has been elusive. The leadership of the HSWU urged its members to remain calm and steadfast while relying on the union's leadership for guidance in the coming days.