Nationwide Strike Looms as Mortuary Workers in Ghana Demand Resolution of Grievances
The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has declared a nationwide strike, scheduled to commence on Thursday, November 28, 2024. This decisive move comes after repeated attempts to address unresolved issues with authorities yielded no results, according to the association.
Background of the Strike
MOWAG, in a statement titled “Notification of Intention to Resume Strike Action in Abeyance,” expressed frustration over the lack of commitment from stakeholders. The group had previously paused an earlier strike on September 26, 2024, allowing room for dialogue and negotiations. However, MOWAG claims that the core issues leading to the initial industrial action remain unaddressed.
Key Issues Raised
The association has long called attention to the following concerns:
- Poor Working Conditions: Mortuary workers report inadequate infrastructure and limited resources to carry out their duties efficiently.
- Insufficient Salaries: Workers argue that their compensation does not reflect the demanding and often hazardous nature of their job.
- Safety Concerns: MOWAG highlights the lack of provisions to ensure the safety of its members, especially regarding health risks.
Nationwide Impact
The strike is expected to disrupt operations in both public and private mortuaries, potentially impacting funeral arrangements and causing challenges for bereaved families. Mortuary workers have been instructed to cease all services indefinitely starting November 28, signaling a major disruption in the funeral industry.
Open to Dialogue
Despite their firm stance, MOWAG emphasized its willingness to engage in discussions to resolve the ongoing issues. “We remain hopeful that even at this late hour, stakeholders will take decisive steps to prevent further escalation,” the statement read.
Conclusion
With the strike set to begin, the focus now shifts to whether authorities will act swiftly to address MOWAG’s demands. Failure to resolve the impasse could lead to significant disruptions in mortuary services nationwide, amplifying the need for urgent action.
This announcement serves as a reminder of the critical role mortuary workers play in Ghana’s healthcare and funeral sectors, highlighting the urgency of addressing their grievances to prevent further disruptions.