The Ghana Employers’ Association (GEA) has commended Ghanaian workers across the country for their sacrifices and efforts in driving the socio-economic development of Ghana.
According to the Association, despite implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, organised labour and employers still offered constructive inputs to help shape national policy and implement same, and accelerate sustainable economic restoration.
A statement issued and signed by president of the GEA and copied to the Ghanaian Times also commended the government for prioritising the restoration of macro-economic stability as well as bringing the much needed relief to all workers, businesses and the general population within the shortest possible time.
Organised labour’s chosen theme for this year’s May Day celebration, “Protecting incomes and pensions in the era of economic crisis: our responsibility, the statement said, was apt because it highlighted the need for collective action and solidarity to address the numerous challenges facing government, employers and workers.
“It is important to remind ourselves that enterprises can hardly thrive in an environment of antagonism, hostility mistrust and adversity. GEA is hopeful that you will reflect deeply on the importance of a sustained harmonious industrial relations environment going forward,” it added.
Industrial disputes, the statement said, directly affects productivity, profits, workers’ incomes and by extension pension contributions, therefore employers and employees must prioritise industrial harmony at the workplace.
The statement also underscored the need for employers to open transparent channels of communication at all levels of enterprises to promote workplace cooperation which is necessary for sustainable enterprises, wealth creation and higher living standards.
It also urged workers to continue sharpening their skills in order to be continuously relevant to the ever-changing labour market, “this is one key channel through which workers could earn higher incomes which could ultimately translate into better retirement benefits and pensions”.
BY TIMES REPORTER
