Privatisation of utility services threatens jobs – TUC SG

TUC Secretary-General Joshua Ansah emphasized the importance of public control over service providers. He warned that privatization could lead to mass layoffs and job instability.

Ansah spoke at the Northern Regional Council of Labour meeting in Tamale. This meeting gathered union executives to discuss key issues and ways to boost productivity for economic growth.

He urged the government to improve service quality instead of privatizing. “Government must enhance service provision to encourage consumer responsibility,” he stated.

Ansah highlighted leadership instability at ECG, noting frequent changes in management. “In five to six years, ECG has had seven or eight managing directors,” he said. Such turnover disrupts progress as new leaders need time to implement plans.

He suggested involving stakeholders on boards of state-owned utility companies. This would leverage expertise from trade unions, industry leaders, think tanks, and civil society.

Mr. Ansah stressed that investment in public infrastructure is crucial. Protecting decent work, fair wages, and sustainable employment should be top priorities for the government. “Privatization has not benefitted workers in this country,” he asserted.

He criticized government policies for creating challenges within utility companies. “The crisis at ECG stems from governmental interference,” he explained. The solution lies in collaboration rather than handing over control to foreign interests.

Northern Regional Secretary-TUC Madam Felicia Kraja echoed these concerns. She urged the government to prioritize citizens' welfare when making policies. Privatizing utility services could harm union members significantly.

Kraja noted that the regional event aimed to unify all sectors of the union. It also focused on electing new executives for a four-year term and discussing strategies for member welfare and economic advancement.