Engage GRNMA to resolve strike impasse – Ayew Afriyie to Finance Ministry

Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, the Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Health Committee, has made a call. He urged the Ministry of Finance to engage with the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA). This is necessary to resolve the ongoing nationwide strike affecting health services.

The GRNMA began its strike this week. They are protesting delays in enforcing the 2024 Collective Agreement. This agreement addresses important issues like unpaid allowances and delayed postings. The strike has nearly halted outpatient and emergency services, putting hospitals under pressure.

The National Labour Commission (NLC) declared the strike illegal. They accused the GRNMA of not following due process. However, the association insists that the government must meet its commitments.

On May 5, Dr. Afriyie spoke on Citi Eyewitness News about the situation. He noted that the issue seems to stem from a failure by the Finance Ministry. They have not continued a previously agreed roadmap from the former NPP administration regarding the 2024 Collective Agreement.

Dr. Afriyie stated that nurses want to resume discussions with the Ministry of Finance where they left off in May 2024. He expressed concern that they may not be receiving adequate attention from officials.

He explained that this agreement was close to final approval before being delayed by a court case involving another group of nurses. “It lies with the Ministry of Finance to continue where we left off,” he said.

Dr. Afriyie also suggested that communication issues might be causing frustration for nurses. He believes there may be a lack of understanding between GRNMA leaders and the Ministry of Finance.

“I am not sure they have cooperation from them,” he added, highlighting potential reasons for their current frustrations.