Rashid Pelpuo urges nurses to halt planned strike

Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, met with leaders of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA). This meeting took place during the 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva. They discussed concerns about a planned strike by the Association.

Dr. Pelpuo urged the nurses and midwives to reconsider their strike action. He highlighted that such a strike could threaten lives, especially among vulnerable populations. “Nurses are the backbone of Ghana’s healthcare system,” he said. He warned that a nationwide strike could cripple health services.

Madam Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, President of GRNMA, expressed willingness to halt the strike. However, she emphasized that this depends on concrete actions from the government. Specifically, she wants an immediate signing of agreements for negotiated allowances.

Minister Pelpuo assured her that the government is committed to resolving these issues. His Ministry is working with Health and Finance Ministries to find sustainable solutions. These solutions aim to protect both health workers' welfare and citizens' health rights.

The GRNMA plans to start industrial action on June 9, 2025. They are protesting unresolved conditions of service and job security threats. The Minister called for restraint and collaboration among all parties involved. He stressed that ongoing discussions are essential for long-term reform and justice for labor groups.