NLC Orders Immediate End to NIA Divisional Union Strike, Declares Action Unlawful

The National Labour Commission (NLC) has ordered the immediate suspension of the strike initiated by the Divisional Union of the National Identification Authority (NIA), labelling the action as illegal and procedurally incorrect.

This directive came after a hearing on Thursday, June 26, 2025, involving representatives from the Divisional Union, the National Union of the Public Services Workers Union (PSWU), and key government agencies including the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that the strike had been declared solely by the Divisional Union without approval from the National Union—an act deemed a violation of Ghana’s labour laws. The laws prohibit local or divisional branches from declaring industrial actions independently.

The National Union admitted to the procedural breach and issued an apology to the Commission.

“The Commission observed that it received notification of a strike declared by the Divisional Union, NIA of PSWU, and asked the National Union to confirm same. The National Union confirmed the Divisional Union called the strike, which the Commission ruled was improper. The Union acknowledged the error and apologized,” the NLC stated.

Consequently, the NLC directed the immediate cessation of the strike and instructed the National Union to initiate negotiations with the NIA, Ministry of Finance, and FWSC concerning unresolved issues, particularly the demand for a 20% operational support allowance.

A follow-up meeting has been scheduled for July 3, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., during which all parties are expected to report on compliance with the NLC’s orders and provide updates on negotiation progress.

The Commission emphasized the need for all labour-related grievances to be addressed through the appropriate legal frameworks to maintain order and protect the rights of all stakeholders.