Western Regional Minister says government will not disappoint workers

By Emmanuel Gamson

Takoradi, May 1, GNA – Mr Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, says the government is committed to restoring workers’ confidence and renewed hope through job security and improved working conditions.

He said the government would put the welfare of the Ghanaian workers at the centre of its programmes and policies to help improve on their wellbeing.

This, he added, would be done through implementing living wage policy, expanding social protection schemes to reach the informal sector workers, strengthening institutions like the National Labour Commission to resolve disputes more swiftly and fairly, deepening tripartite engagement and promoting workplace inclusivity, and ensuring that women, youth, and marginalized groups were not left behind.

Mr Nelson said this when workers’ unions in the Western Region gathered at the Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS) Park to celebrate this year’s May Day on the theme: “Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders.”

Touching on the theme, he stated that the world of work was changing fast with rising costs of living, global economic uncertainties, and rapid technological changes, demanding that state actors rethink on how “ we value, reward, and protect our workforce.”

He said employers must see workers not merely as operational costs, but as partners whose wellbeing drove productivity and loyalty.

“Organized Labour must continue to advocate, negotiate, and engage, not just to demand, but also to co-create solutions.

Together, through meaningful partnerships, we can build a future where decent work is not a privilege for the few, but the reality for many,” the Western Regional Minister added.

Mr Nelson asked stakeholders to let the May Day celebrations ignite a renewed commitment from every employer, worker, and policymaker to push for a future where dignity, fairness, and opportunity were the pillars of the country’s labour landscape.

Madam Shirley Breiman, Chairperson of the Western Region Trade Union Congress (TUC), reaffirmed the Union’s commitment and solidarity to the labour movement to pave the way for a brighter future for all.

She, however, highlighted challenges facing workers, citing the Region’s poor roads as a major concern, and urged government to expedite actions to resolve Region specific issues.

GNA

MSM/CA