Health services workers union declares strike

Bono, Bono East and Ahafo Regional chapter of Health Services Workers Union has declared to embark on a strike action effective today Tuesday, October 26, 2021, over “unfair treatment” by the government in respect of payment of their allowances.

Theophilus Kofi Tsikata, chairman of the union, disclosed this at a press conference in Sunyani, Bono regional capital.  

He called on members to remain resolute and unwavering “as the leadership of the union continues to engage government on the matter”.

Although teamwork stands as a strong fundamental principle that drives the health sector, Mr Tsikata indicated that it was perturbing to note that the government had deliberately decided to cause segregation and disharmony within the health fraternity.

The Union has seen no proper implementation by the government after the signing of its collective agreement in 2015.

The Union is requesting allowances for fuel, accommodation, uniform/clothing, extra risk, books and research, as well as continued professional development allowance.

Mr Tsikata said their requests are long overdue since the conditions of services of sister unions were reviewed either once or twice in 2019 and 2020 and implemented.

The dragging of feet and lackadaisical nature with which the government handles issues of the Health Workers Union, according to the chairman, cannot be tolerated anymore.

The Union said if, by October 28, 2021, the negotiations do not end with a favorable outcome members would continue to stay home until the issue is resolved.

The union chairman urged the general public to bear with their action and charged members to continue to fly high the red bands to indicate their displeasure at the mistreatment by the government.

Nana Ama Asiedu, Bono Region