Update on 2024 Minimum wage and Public Sector Base Pay Negotiations
Update on 2024 Minimum Wage and Public Sector Base Pay Negotiations
Accra, November 14th, 2023 – Today marks the second day of discussions on the 2024 salary Base Pay Negotiations and Minimum Wage.
Following inconclusive deliberations yesterday between Organised Labour and the Government, both parties are set to reconvene today. Yesterday’s negotiations saw the Government propose a 15% increase in the Minimum Wage. In response, Organised Labour, considering the prevailing economic conditions and living standards, suggested a 75.1% increment, ultimately settling at 60%.
Day 2: November 14th Update
This agreement, made on November 14, 2024, involves the Government of Ghana, represented by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR), and Ministry of Finance (MoF) as “The Employer,” and Organized Labour, consisting of workers Unions, Associations, and Institutions within the Public Service of Ghana, referred to as “Labour.”
The agreement is a result of negotiations by the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee (PSJSNC) for the 2024 Single Spine Salary Structure Base Pay. The key terms include a 23% increase in the Base Pay on the Single Spine Salary Structure from January 2024 to June 2024, followed by a readjustment to 25% from July 2024 to December 2024.
The agreement is signed by representatives including the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Chief Executive of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, Secretary General of TUC, and Chairman of FORUM.
The need for a better salary for public sector workers
The National Teaching Council reports a significant exodus of over 10,000 teachers seeking opportunities abroad. This trend is attributed to the challenging conditions and the plight of retired teachers in the country. Newer teachers are reluctant to face similar challenges. 10,000 Teachers relocate to the UK in 2023 and more are on their way to NTC
Similarly, the Ghana Medical and Dental Council highlights a concerning trend, with over 150 doctors leaving the country monthly, along with 3,000 nurses. The primary driver behind this migration is inadequate remuneration for workers in the sector.
In response, Labour unions are steadfast in their pursuit of fair compensation for public sector employees, aiming to curb, if not eliminate, the brain drain. Reports indicate that retired doctors and nurses often find themselves in precarious situations, facing health issues exacerbated by the nature of their profession and relying on meager earnings for treatment.
Their demands include retirement on their salaries and free healthcare for healthcare professionals.
Teachers’ Condition and New Draft
The teachers’ unions are equally resolute, seeking resolution on outstanding allowances from previous collective agreements. They are currently reviewing a draft of a new collective agreement and anticipate engaging with their employers to finalize and implement the new terms.
New draft proposal of Collective Agreement and Housing Scheme for Members; GNAT NEC Meeting Update
AlsoÂ
2024 Salary Negotiations: Teacher Unions Prioritize Allowances Over Increment
The discussions continue as all parties work towards a mutually beneficial resolution that addresses the pressing concerns of public sector workers and ensures a stable and sustainable work environment.
Further updates will be provided as negotiations progress.
75.1% Against 15%Â 2024 Minimum Wage and Salary Negotiations Update in Ghana November
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