Abandon Proposed Strike Action

– Return to negotiating table, FWSC urges CLOGSSAG

Story: Isaac AIDOO, Accra

THE Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has called on the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) to abandon its proposed strike action, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue to resolve CLOGSAG’s demands for a new salary structure and conditions of service.

 In an official statement, FWSC highlighted the government’s commitment to resolving these issues while upholding the principles that underlie the Single Spine Pay Policy (SSPP), Ghana’s public-sector pay framework.

“We urge CLOGSAG to rescind its decision to embark on the strike action and return to the negotiating table for a timely resolution of their concerns,” the statement read.

CLOGSAG’s demands and initial govt response

The demand for a revised salary structure and improved conditions of service was first submitted by CLOGSAG to the Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor. Acknowledging the importance of the demands, government formed a Technical Committee, comprising members from both CLOGSAG and the Government Team, to discuss and evaluate the proposal.

In a communique dated July 12, 2024, CLOGSAG’s Executive Secretary praised both parties for their shared commitment to addressing salary-related concerns within the Civil and Local Government Services. Despite these initial agreements, the process reached a standstill in late October, leading CLOGSAG to announce its intent to strike. FWSC maintains that government efforts to find a solution remain active and urged CLOGSAG to continue talks rather than resort to industrial action.

Balancing CLOGSAG’s demands with Single Spine Policy Integrity

The FWSC emphasized the need to address CLOGSAG’s requests within the framework of the Single Spine Pay Policy, established in 2010 to ensure fair and consistent remuneration across the public sector. The FWSC referenced a 2011 High Court ruling that prevents CLOGSAG from opting out of the SSPP, underscoring that any adjustments to salary structures must align with existing pay policies.

“In line with the 2011 ruling, government representatives have been exploring alternative ways to address CLOGSAG’s demand without compromising the pay structure’s integrity,” the FWSC stated. FWSC reiterated that, while discussions are ongoing, CLOGSAG’s demand for a complete shift in salary structure would be evaluated in ways that maintain fairness across all government employees.

On October 30, 2024, the Government Team proposed an alternative solution to CLOGSAG’s concerns, which was documented as requested by CLOGSAG. However, the Commission expressed surprise at the union’s strike announcement, given that discussions had not reached a deadlock and no formal response from CLOGSAG had been received.

Concerns raised by FWSC on CLOGSAG’s negotiation tactics

The FWSC statement voiced concerns over CLOGSAG’s approach, pointing out that the association bypassed the Commission by presenting its demands directly to the Senior Presidential Advisor, an action the Commission views as a deliberate attempt to undermine FWSC’s authority. According to Section 2 of the FWSC Act 2007 (Act 737), FWSC is designated as the sole body responsible for overseeing public sector pay policies, including the management and adjustment of the SSPP.

Beyond procedural concerns, FWSC outlined additional challenges in its engagements with CLOGSAG, citing instances of alleged uncooperative behaviour. According to FWSC, CLOGSAG representatives have walked out of meetings, issued verbal confrontations, and made repeated calls for the dismissal of FWSC’s Chief Executive, Ing. Benjamin Arthur. Such actions, FWSC argued, have hindered constructive dialogue and reflect CLOGSAG’s ongoing attempts to undermine the SSPP.

In its most recent press release, CLOGSAG stated that it “has decided to have nothing to do with the Chief Executive of FWSC,” a stance FWSC described as an act of “bad faith,” especially as the Chief Executive has made continuous efforts to engage with CLOGSAG on their concerns. “For CLOGSAG to distance itself from FWSC’s Chief Executive, particularly after refusing to attend scheduled meetings, is a troubling indication of their approach to resolving these issues,” FWSC stated.

FWSC reaffirms commitment to fair dialogue, urges for return to negotiation table

Despite recent challenges, FWSC reiterated its commitment to an amicable resolution, stressing that it remains open to dialogue in the interest of public sector employees and government unity. The Commission underscored that CLOGSAG’s decision to circumvent the established negotiation process has undermined its own interests and called on the association to engage directly with FWSC to reach a sustainable solution.

“We are fully committed to finding a fair resolution that respects both the needs of CLOGSAG members and the integrity of Ghana’s public pay structure,” FWSC stated, urging CLOGSAG to uphold the negotiation process. The Commission expressed hope that the association would engage fully in the talks, placing public interest and harmony above individual objectives. The FWSC’s statement underscores the need for a united approach to public sector wage reform, urging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and collaboration over unilateral actions. The Commission assured the public of its commitment to safeguarding fair and equitable remuneration within Ghana’s public sector, highlighting its mandate to protect the principles enshrined in the Single Spine Pay Policy for the benefit of all public workers.