Minority urges gov’t to reconsider stance on nurses and midwives’ strike

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has taken a swipe at the government for what it describes as a lack of commitment to fulfilling the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with nurses and midwives.

At a press conference held at Parliament House, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Health Committee, said the government’s refusal to honour the agreement signed with the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) reflects bad faith.

“We in the Minority do not believe the nurses and midwives are at fault. They are only demanding what is rightfully theirs,” he stated. “The government must change its posture and engage with the GRNMA to resolve this matter peacefully. These healthcare workers should not be intimidated.”

Dr. Afriyie, who is also the Member of Parliament for Effiduase-Asokore, added that all governments, regardless of which party is in power, have a duty to respect agreements signed in good faith.

He insisted that governance is a continuous process, and commitments must be honoured.

The nurses and midwives began an indefinite strike on June 4 to demand payment of 13 months’ outstanding allowances, rural service incentives, fuel arrears, and other welfare-related matters.

Though the CBA was signed in May 2024 with implementation set for July 1, the government says current budget constraints make fulfilment impossible.

The Minority believes the government can still make room for the nurses’ demands in the upcoming mid-year budget review.

While backing the health workers’ cause, the Caucus also urged them to show compassion when called to the negotiating table.