The Divisional Executive Council of the Public Services Workers' Union (PSWU)-National Identification Authority (NIA), has today embarked on an indefinite strike action over non-payment of operational support allowance.

According to the union, the Ministry of Finance has failed to provide a definitive commitment or timeline regarding the payment of the operational support allowance, the only allowance NIA staff get to supplement their meagre basic pay.

This allowance was the outcome of extensive negotiations concluded in July 2024 between the government's team comprising the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Ministry of Finance, and representatives of the Union.

"In line with the agreement reached, payment of the allowance commenced in August 2024 and continued through to December 2024. Unfortunately, these payments have stalled since January 2025," the union revealed in a statement dated June 23.

The union had a final round of engagement with the Ministry of Finance on June 23 after receiving assurances from NIA Management, who communicated that tireless efforts were being made to resolve the matter and resume payments.

According to the union, "despite this and many assurances, as of today, especially after a crunch meeting at the Finance Ministry, no concrete steps or timelines have been provided to address the matter."

"Repeated follow-ups, constructive engagement, and our demonstrated willingness to cooperate in good faith have regrettably not been met with the urgency and seriousness this issue demands," it added.

Despite acknowledging the efforts of stakeholders, the union stated that "the absence of concrete action from the Ministry of Finance has left our members spread across the Head Office, Regional Offices, Premium Centres, and District Offices-under severe financial and emotional strain."

"Consequently, all PSWU members at the NIA are directed to withdraw their services indefinitely, starting Tuesday, June 24, 2025, until our legitimate concerns are addressed and outstanding payments resumed," the statement consequently added.

The union has urged its members to remain united, peaceful, and law-abiding throughout this period.

The Union, nonetheless, noted that it is open to constructive dialogue, provided such discussions lead to prompt and full payment of the Operational Support Allowance as negotiated, agreed and signed.