NLC orders nurses to end strike over breach of labour procedures
The GRNMA was also ordered to suspend all intended actions, including the wearing of red armbands and withdrawal of services, pending the Commission’s intervention
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has declared the ongoing strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives’ Association (GRNMA) illegal, accusing the union of breaching procedures outlined in the Labour Act.
The strike, which has crippled public health services across the country, has seen nurses abandon their posts, leaving patients stranded in several hospitals. Health authorities say the situation is threatening the delivery of essential care.
In a statement issued Wednesday (4 June), the NLC said it had received notice of the intended industrial action on 29 May. Acting under Section 162 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) and Regulation 20 of L.I. 1833, the Commission summoned the union for a hearing on 4 June.
The GRNMA was also ordered to suspend all intended actions, including the wearing of red armbands and withdrawal of services, pending the Commission’s intervention.
However, while other key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, honoured the summons, the nurses’ union failed to appear and went ahead with the strike.
The NLC said the GRNMA did not comply with Section 159 of the Labour Act, which outlines the formal notification process for lawful industrial action.
As a result, the Commission has deemed the strike illegal and ordered the GRNMA to immediately call it off.
In its statement, the NLC urged the association to resume dialogue with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission over the implementation of their Collective Agreement. The Commission expects a report on the outcome of the talks by 25 June at 2:30pm.
It stressed the need for all parties to follow legal procedures, particularly in sectors that provide essential services such as healthcare.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has issued emergency directives aimed at sustaining minimal levels of care while the strike continues.
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