The Chamber of Pharmacy has described the industrial action by government pharmacists as an unfortunate and worrying situation which needs to be addressed urgently.
“The Chamber of Pharmacy Ghana sees the breakdown in negotiations between the parties as most unfortunate, especially at a time when the services of one of the most critical essential service providers (pharmacists) are needed to advance our national health goals,” a statement signed and released by the CEO of the Chamber, Anthony K. Ameka said on Wednesday September 14, 2016.
As the Chamber appeals to the striking pharmacists to consider the lives of patients and rescind their decision, they have also entreated stakeholders to resolve the issue as soon as possible to ensure that no unexpected occurrence arises due to the strike.
“The Chamber of Pharmacy Ghana is, therefore, appealing to the Government and its negotiation team, the national leadership of GHOSPA and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), to address these issues urgently and immediately. This is critical to save the lives of Ghanaians,” it added.
“We are all appealing to members of the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) to consider their patients and cooperate for a swift resolution.”
Members of the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) numbering about 600 have indicated that they will only return to work if government, through the relevant agencies, shows clear commitment to improving their working conditions.
GHOSPA declared an indefinite nationwide strike on September 5, 2016, in protest against what its members described as persistent acts of injustice, unfairness and deliberate delay by the National Labour Commission (NLC) and the FWSC to address outstanding issues relating to their Interim Market Premium, Grade Structure and Placement, and Conditions of Service.
The Chamber believes those bearing the consequences of the strike action will be patients; hence both sides should find an amicable solution for the pharmacists to resume work.
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