FWSC appeals for dialogue as CLOGSAG considers strike action over pay structure
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The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has urged the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) to reconsider its planned strike action, encouraging continued dialogue over CLOGSAG’s demand for a new salary structure. In a press release, FWSC stated, “We urge CLOGSAG to rescind its decision to embark on the strike action and return to the negotiating table for a timely resolution of their concerns.”
Background to CLOGSAG’s Demands
CLOGSAG initially submitted its demand for a new salary structure and conditions of service to the Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor. A Technical Committee was subsequently established, composed of representatives from both CLOGSAG and the Government Team, to discuss these proposals. In a communique dated July 12, 2024, CLOGSAG’s Executive Secretary acknowledged the parties’ commitment to resolving issues related to the proposed salary structure.
Government’s Efforts to Address CLOGSAG’s Concerns
FWSC highlighted the government’s efforts to balance CLOGSAG’s demands with the principles of the Single Spine Pay Policy. It referenced a 2011 High Court ruling that prevents CLOGSAG from opting out of this policy. Government representatives have been exploring alternative solutions that would address CLOGSAG’s salary structure requests without undermining the established pay framework.
The statement noted that during discussions held on October 30, 2024, the Government Team presented an alternative proposal, which was immediately documented as requested by CLOGSAG. However, FWSC expressed surprise at CLOGSAG’s notice to strike despite ongoing negotiations and the absence of a formal response from CLOGSAG regarding the proposal.
Concerns Over CLOGSAG’s Approach
FWSC raised concerns about CLOGSAG’s handling of its demands, pointing out that the association bypassed the Commission by addressing their requests directly to the Senior Presidential Advisor. According to FWSC, this approach violates Section 2 of the FWSC Act 2007 (Act 737), which mandates FWSC to handle government pay policy matters.
The FWSC statement further highlighted past incidents where CLOGSAG’s behavior, such as walking out of meetings and verbal confrontations, has disrupted engagement with FWSC’s Chief Executive, Ing. Benjamin Arthur. The Commission views CLOGSAG’s stance of having “nothing to do with the Chief Executive of FWSC” as undermining the authority of FWSC and its mandate.
FWSC Reaffirms Commitment to Negotiation
FWSC reiterated its commitment to reaching a fair and sustainable solution through dialogue, underscoring that CLOGSAG’s decision to sidestep the Commission hinders constructive negotiations. The Commission called on CLOGSAG to uphold the negotiation process and to engage with FWSC to ensure a harmonious resolution in line with the Single Spine Pay Policy.
