The Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations(MELR) has cautioned the public against some unlicensed Private Employment Agencies (PEAs) recruiting nurses and caretakers to the United Kingdom(UK).
The ministry said their attention had been drawn to the PEAs and individuals recruiting people from Ghana to the UK and other countries abroad to work without going through the appropriate routes.
According to a statement by the ministry, these agencies and individuals charge unsuspecting job-seekers exorbitant fees for processing documents without having the necessary licenses to operate in Ghana.
It added that operating such agencies without a license was illegal, and therefore the ministry would deal with any agency or individual found guilty.
“Any PEA found culpable shall face the full rigours of the law. The MELR condemns in no uncertain terms the exploitative activities of any PEA or individuals that seek to tarnish the reputation of Ghana.
“We encourage anyone with information about the activities of unlicensed PEAS to report to the MELR, the appropriate law enforcement agencies,” the statement said.
The ministry also urged all individuals seeking employment abroad to be cautious and verify the credentials of any agency they deal with to avoid being duped.
All licensed PEAs operating in Ghana were also advised to comply with the provisions of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) and Labour Regulations, 2007 (LI 1833) to facilitate their work.