Government signs agreements with Health Services Workers Union, Internal Audit Agency

The government has signed two agreements with the Health Services Workers Union (HSWU) and the Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) on behalf of staff of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA).

The agreements are meant to improve the working conditions of the members of the two unions.

The two unions and the government team expressed satisfaction with the progress made in negotiations.

These agreements demonstrate the government's dedication to worker welfare and transparency aimed at promoting harmony and productivity in the health sector, and accountability in public fund management.

HSWU agreement

The government and HSWU signed an agreement on November 11, 2024, to improve working conditions for union members.

Representing the government, the Chief Executive of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, Benjamin Arthur, expressed excitement about the outcome of the lengthy engagement. 

"Health service workers play a significant role in the country's development, and we appreciate their efforts," he said, and thanked the leaders of the union for their support throughout the process.

Mr Arthur, a trained engineer and labour expert, expressed the hope that future negotiations would be smoother, quicker and even exceed expectations to provide better conditions.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Director for Human Resource at the Ministry of Health, Joana Abakah-Yamoah, assured the union that their concerns would be addressed.

Union’s concerns

However, the General Secretary of HSWU, Franklin Owusu Ansah, expressed concern over negotiation delays and urged faster progress.

Despite not receiving everything they asked for, Mr Ansah emphasised that the union signed the agreement because it prioritised the country's interest.

Looking forward, he said, he hoped future negotiations would address the union’s concerns and improve the health sector.

IAA agreement

The government signed an agreement with PSWU on October 1, 2024, strengthening the IAA's role in ensuring government agencies' financial integrity.

Mr Arthur signed on behalf of the government, while the IAA Director-General, Dr Eric Oduro Osae, represented the agency after which the two leaders exchanged documents to seal the agreement.

Appreciation

Dr Oduro Osae expressed gratitude to the FWSC for securing fair compensation for IAA staff.

He acknowledged the risks internal auditors faced safeguarding public funds and thanked the government for recognising their vital role in transparency and accountability.

Government’s commitment

For his part, Mr Arthur reaffirmed the government's commitment to good governance and responsible resource management.

"We're committed to fair wages and salaries for all public sector workers. This agreement promotes transparency and accountability in public fund management," he said.

The IAA, established under Act 658, coordinates internal audit activities to ensure unbiased internal controls.