The Ministry of Health has appealed to the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to rescind its decision to embark on a series of industrial actions.
GRNMA at a press conference directed its members to embark on a series of industrial actions.
The strike action will involve the gradual withdrawal of services, starting with outpatient departments, then emergency services, and finally, a total withdrawal of all services.
The key reason for the strike is related to their conditions of service and the government’s failure in handling their concerns.
However, the Ministry of Health has expressed shock over the matter.
A statement issued by the ministry and signed by spokesperson Mr Tony Goodman noted that the sector minister had engaged with leadership and assured them of the commitment of the government in addressing their issues.
The statement further disclosed that the minister, since assuming office, met with leadership more than five times.
“The Ministry is shocked and surprised by this turn of events, especially in light of the numerous engagements the Honourable Minister for Health has had with the leadership of the GRNMA on this very matter.
It is a well-known fact that under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, significant strides were made in improving the welfare of nurses and other health workers, including the historic introduction and implementation of the first-ever Conditions of Service for health workers in 2015.”
“Since assuming office, the Honourable Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has met with the leadership of the GRNMA on more than five occasions.
On the issue of conditions of service, the statement said, “The reviewed conditions of service were scheduled to take effect in 2024 under the erstwhile administration, but unfortunately, implementation was delayed. At the last meeting it was agreed that a committee comprising representatives from the GRNMA, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health be established to continue the process.”
The ministry said it has demonstrated good faith and therefore encourages the leadership of the GRNMA to do the same.
“The ministry has demonstrated good faith in this matter and urges the leadership of the GRNMA to reciprocate for the benefit of Ghana’s health sector.
We therefore call on the GRNMA to rescind its decision whilst the minister continues to engage all stakeholders involved.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
