NLC directs FWSC to resume negotiations with Medical Lab scientists

NLC directs FWSC to resume negotiations

The National Labour Commission (NLC) has taken a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing dispute between the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) by directing the latter to resume negotiations with the union on their conditions of service. This directive was issued at a meeting held on Thursday, which was attended by executives of MELPWU and a team of directors from the Ministry of Health and FWSC.

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The NLC’s intervention comes after the union threatened to embark on a nationwide strike action by May 20th, 2024, if their demands were not met. On May Day, the union gave the government a 20-day ultimatum to address outstanding issues, including the provision of financial clearance, and resume the stalled conditions of service negotiations.

In a statement signed by the General Secretary of MELPWU, Dr. Cephas Kofi Akortor, the union expressed satisfaction with the NLC’s intervention. The statement noted that the meeting detailed the progress made so far, outstanding items to be negotiated, and efforts to obtain a mandate from the Ministry of Finance towards finalizing the agreement. After a short hearing and caucuses, the NLC directed the FWSC to confirm a date with the union for the continuation of negotiations within the coming week and report back to the NLC on 30th May, 2024, with the outcome.

The NLC has also pleaded with the union to suspend the intended strike action, urging members to continue keeping faith in their leadership as they cooperate with the relevant authorities to do what is expected of them. This development is a welcome relief for thousands of medical science laboratory professionals across the country who have been affected by the absence of a Condition of Service, which has jeopardized the quality of healthcare services provided to the public.

The resumption of negotiations is a significant step towards addressing the long-standing issues faced by medical laboratory professionals, including inadequate compensation, poor working conditions, and lack of recognition. The NLC’s intervention demonstrates its commitment to promoting industrial peace and resolving disputes through dialogue and negotiation.

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The FWSC and MELPWU are expected to work together in good faith to finalize the conditions of service agreement, which will help to improve the welfare of medical laboratory professionals and enhance the quality of healthcare services in the country. The union’s decision to suspend the intended strike action is a positive sign that they are willing to cooperate with the authorities to find a lasting solution to their problems.

In conclusion, the NLC’s directive to the FWSC to resume negotiations with MELPWU is a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing dispute and promoting industrial peace in the health sector. The union’s willingness to cooperate with the authorities is a positive sign that a lasting solution can be found to the problems faced by medical laboratory professionals.

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