Medical Lab Scientists Postpone Plan to Go on Strike

The Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union (MELPWU) has decided to postpone its planned nationwide strike following a recent development in negotiations with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC).

The FWSC has secured financial clearance for two out of the 13 items under negotiation for the Conditions of Service of the union.

While this move has averted the immediate threat of a strike, the union’s leadership expressed disappointment, describing the clearance as “woefully inadequate.”

Dr. Cephas Kofi Akortor, General Secretary of MELPWU, emphasized the union’s commitment to good faith negotiations but cautioned against taking their patience for granted.

Despite temporarily suspending the strike, the union remains vigilant and determined to address the outstanding issues.

The Conditions of Service negotiations between MELPWU and the FWSC have been ongoing for nearly two years, marked by delays from the government’s side. This delay prompted the union to issue a 20-day ultimatum to the government on May Day, demanding resolution of the issues.

In response to the ultimatum, the Labour Commission intervened and instructed the FWSC to resume and conclude negotiations with the union. However, the financial clearance needed to facilitate negotiations was not provided by the Ministry of Finance, leading to further delays.

As the union prepared to declare a strike, an emergency negotiation meeting was called by the FWSC, where they informed the union about the availability of financial clearance for two out of the 13 demand items.

Dr. Akortor urged union members to remain calm as the leadership evaluates the government’s commitment and assurances provided by the FWSC and the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations.

A strike by MELPWU would have a significant impact on healthcare delivery across the country, affecting laboratory diagnostic services in public health facilities and allied agencies.

Membership of the union includes Medical Laboratory Scientists, Medical Laboratory Technicians, and Medical Laboratory Assistants, as well as laboratory professionals providing technical services in Pathology Laboratories and mortuary facilities nationwide.