The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has called on the Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) to cancel its planned strike scheduled for Monday. According to the commission, the strike would violate existing rules of engagement and disrupt ongoing negotiations.

In a statement released yesterday in Accra, the FWSC noted that negotiations were still in progress and that the union’s reason for striking—delays in talks—was unfounded. The commission stressed that the strike would only prolong the negotiation process, stating, “Engagement cannot continue while a party at the negotiation table is on strike.”

The PSWU had submitted a request on September 19, 2024, for two institution-specific allowances for all 46 of its member organizations. Alongside this request, the union issued a strike threat, which the FWSC says goes against the Labour Act of 2003 (Act 651).

Following the submission, the FWSC invited PSWU leaders and member organizations to a meeting on September 24 to initiate discussions. Preliminary talks were held the next day, during which both parties signed the rules of engagement and agreed to further negotiations. Part of these discussions involved assessing the financial impact of the requested allowances and forwarding the findings to the Ministry of Finance, as per standard procedure.

The FWSC clarified that some PSWU organizations already receive institution-specific allowances, and the focus would be on those that do not currently benefit. The commission submitted the cost implications to the Ministry of Finance on September 28, refuting claims of delayed negotiations.

"The commission has to follow the necessary processes to secure a mandate and conclude negotiations," the FWSC emphasized. The body also pointed out that the planned strike, set for October 21, violates the agreed rules and the Labour Act.