Scores of applicants who visited various National Identification Authority (NIA) offices nationwide in pursuit of Ghana Cards were left stranded due to the ongoing Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) strike.
The industrial action by public sector workers, which commenced on Monday, October 21, 2024, was necessitated by the government’s failure to pay institution-specific allowances.
As a result, all NIA offices, staff of the Electoral Commission, and other important government sector workers have suspended operations indefinitely.
In an earlier press conference, PSWU expressed frustration over the government’s refusal to pay the allowances, which they claimed had worsened the financial burden on public service workers.
The union has been advocating for allowances that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by its members across various institutions.
In response, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) urged PSWU members to reconsider the decision, warning that the strike would disrupt ongoing negotiations.
The FWSC, in its October 17 statement, reiterated its readiness to continue negotiations but stressed that the strike would hinder progress.
The FWSC also indicated that the strike violates the rules of engagement and the Labour Act, Act 651, signed by both parties.