President Akufo-Addo Promises Review of Labour Laws

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has vowed to complete the review of Ghana’s labour laws to improve the welfare and wellbeing of workers in the country. Speaking at the 2023 International Workers’ Day celebration in Bolgatanga, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s Labour Law is updated to address contemporary issues affecting workers.

Organized labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has been calling for a review of what they consider outdated employment laws that cannot adequately address the challenges faced by today’s workers in terms of job security, income security, life, and safety.

The International Workers’ Day, which is celebrated on May 1 in over 80 countries, including Ghana, is a public holiday meant to celebrate the contributions of workers, promote their rights and commemorate the labour movement.

Under the theme “Protecting Incomes and Pensions in an Era of Economic Crisis: Our responsibility”, this year’s May Day celebration in Ghana highlights the need to safeguard workers’ incomes and pensions amid an economic downturn.

In his speech, President Akufo-Addo applauded Ghana’s workers for their hard work, selflessness, sacrifice, patriotism, and commitment to the country’s development. He also urged organized labour to collaborate with the government in addressing socio-economic challenges facing the country to provide a stronger base for rapid growth and development.

The General Secretary of the TUC, Dr. Yaw Baah, emphasized that Ghanaian workers would continue to work hard in building a robust and resilient economy. He also expressed concerns over the treatment of local workers by international companies, highlighting the need to protect their labour rights and privileges.

For the most part, the President’s promise to review the Labour Law is a welcome development, as it will ensure that Ghana’s labour laws align with modern realities. This move will improve workers’ job security, income security, life, and safety, among others. Additionally, the President’s call for dialogue and consultations to address labour issues is vital in building consensus on issues of national significance for the benefit of the citizenry.

Source: Ghana News Agency