Accra: The Ghana News Agency division of the Public Services Workers' Union (PSWU) has urged the government to promptly release all outstanding compensations owed to its workers to alleviate their limited financial resources.
According to Ghana News Agency, the appeal was made by Mrs Lydia Kukua Asamoah, Chairperson of the PSWU-GNA Division, during a gathering of Agency staff to commemorate this year's May Day celebration in Accra. Mrs Asamoah highlighted that the government owes workers nine months of unpaid compensations, spanning the fourth quarters of 2024 and 2025, as well as the first quarter of 2026. She emphasized the urgency of settling these arrears, stating that 'the worker deserves his or her wages.'
Mrs Asamoah also called for continued government investment in the Agency to bolster its role as a reliable source of authentic information. This year's May Day celebration, observed globally, was themed 'Pivoting to Growth, Jobs and Sustainable Livelihoods Beyond the Macroeconomic Stability.' Mrs Asamoah acknowledged reports of macroeconomic stability but underscored that workers expect these gains to reflect in improved living standards and dignity.
Additionally, Mrs Asamoah announced that the PSWU of TUC had successfully negotiated a 15 percent Institutional-Based Allowance for member organizations lacking existing allowances, with documentation processes underway for implementation starting April 2026. She noted that the Union had introduced active loan packages and a Critical Illness Fund, with plans for a Mutual Health Insurance Scheme, encouraging staff to engage with Union activities and maintain professionalism.
The management of GNA was commended for fostering a cooperative relationship with the Union and its staff. As part of the May Day celebrations, the PSWU-GNA Division initiated aerobic exercise sessions to promote worker health, with plans to institutionalize this at the GNA Head Office.
Mrs Asamoah recognized the mentorship of past union leaders, praised current executives for their dedication, and encouraged non-unionized staff to join the PSWU to strengthen the collective front at GNA. She urged workers to remain united and committed to national development while honoring the contributions of labor pioneers.