Accra: The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Parliament has sharply criticized the government’s refusal to meet the demands of nurses and midwives as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The Minority described the government’s stance as one of ‘bad faith,’ urging a change in approach to resolve the ongoing strike.

According to Ghana News Agency, the Minority Caucus, led by Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, who is also the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Health Committee, expressed support for the nurses and midwives during a press conference at Parliament House. Dr. Afriye emphasized that the health professionals were merely exercising their rights and called on the government to engage in amicable discussions with the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to settle the dispute without intimidation.

Dr. Afriye, also serving as the NPP Member of Parliament for Effiduase/Asokore, reiterated that governance should be a continuous process with commitments upheld regardless of the ruling party. He stressed the importance of adhering to agreements previously made by government representatives.

Members of the GRNMA have initiated an indefinite strike, demanding the government honor the CBA signed in May 2024, which was supposed to be implemented from July 1, 2024. Their demands include the payment of 13 months’ outstanding allowances, allowances for rural nurses, fuel allowance arrears, and other welfare concerns.

Despite the strike, the government maintains that it is unable to fulfill the CBA terms at present due to financial constraints, a stance the GRNMA has rejected. The Minority suggests that the government could incorporate the GRNMA’s demands into the mid-year budget review rather than postponing action until the following year.

While advocating for the government’s responsiveness, the Minority Caucus also urged the GRNMA to be considerate and compassionate when negotiations resume, given the potential impact on public health.