Chairman Abronye salutes Ghanaian workers on Labour Day: Reflects on strides made in labour laws and workers’ rights
Labour Day is a national holiday celebrated in Ghana on May 1st to honour the contributions of workers towards the growth and development of the country. The holiday has its roots in the labour movement, which fought for better working conditions and fair wages for workers.
For the most part, the Labour Day celebrations are an opportunity to reflect on the struggles that workers have faced throughout history. From the fight for fair wages and safe working conditions to the fight for workers’ rights, the labour movement has made significant progress over the years.
Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, was declared the “First Number One Worker” and decorated with a May Day Award by the Trades Union Congress in 1960. Since then, workers in Ghana have been instrumental in passing a number of laws that protect their rights and promote fair labour practices.
The Labour Act of 2003 is one such law that provides for the regulation of labour in Ghana, covering issues such as minimum wage, working hours, overtime, rest periods, and leave entitlements. It also sets out the procedures for the settlement of labour disputes.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 2020 sets out the duties of employers and employees with regard to workplace safety and health. It also establishes the National Occupational Safety and Health Authority to regulate and enforce compliance with the law.
The Social Security Act of 2010 establishes the National Pensions Regulatory Authority to oversee the administration of pensions in Ghana. It also provides for the establishment of a social security system to provide benefits to workers in the event of injury, disability, or death.
The Labour Regulations of 2007 set out the procedures for the registration of trade unions and the negotiation and enforcement of collective bargaining agreements. They also provide for the establishment of a Labour Commission to oversee the administration of labour laws and the resolution of labour disputes.
Ghana also ratified the Maternity Protection Convention of 2000, which provides for the protection of the rights of pregnant women and new mothers in the workplace. The convention requires employers to provide paid maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and other accommodations to ensure the health and safety of pregnant and nursing mothers.
Overall, these laws and regulations have helped to improve the working conditions and rights of workers in Ghana. However, there is still work to be done to ensure that all workers are treated fairly and with dignity.
As we celebrate Labour Day, let us not forget the challenges that workers still face today. Many workers were at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic during the outbreak, from healthcare workers to grocery store employees, playing a crucial role in keeping communities running during the pandemic.
The labour movement in Ghana continues to advocate for better working conditions, higher wages, and stronger worker protections. Let us honour the contributions of workers and work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all workers, both here in our own communities.
Happy Labour Day to all the hardworking people out there who are the backbone of our society! Today, we celebrate you and all that you do to keep our country running smoothly.
Source: GNA