The Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (Ghana), National Identification Authority (NIA) Division, has issued a firm ultimatum to management, demanding immediate resolution of longstanding staff welfare concerns.
The union warns that failure to address these grievances within 21 working days could lead to a nationwide industrial action.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the Acting Executive Secretary of the NIA, the union listed four critical issues: unpaid operational support allowances, delayed staff migration and promotions, non-payment of allowances for acting District Registration Officers (DROs), and outstanding compensation for the under-15 registration exercise conducted between October and December 2024.
According to the PSWU, the non-payment of the 20% operational support allowance—which has been in arrears for four months—is causing severe financial strain among staff, with many reportedly incurring debt in anticipation of the funds.
The union also criticized the prolonged delay in completing the staff migration process, which they claim has stalled promotions for over six months.
“This is creating an untenable climate of uncertainty and anxiety amongst our membership regarding their professional futures,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the union accused the NIA of failing to pay acting DROs despite their formal appointments, which in many cases came only after sustained union pressure.
These officers, it said, have continued to work without compensation, enduring repeated assurances from management that have yet to translate into results.
The PSWU also raised concerns over the unpaid allowances for staff who participated in the under-15 registration campaign. While initial payments were made for five working days, the remaining compensation has yet to be settled.
The union warned that it may no longer be able to restrain growing frustration among members if management fails to act. It called for urgent redress, including full payment of all outstanding allowances, finalization of staff migration and promotions, and implementation of a new salary structure aligned with the updated scheme of service.
“If these demands are not met within 21 working days, we would consider appropriate actions without further notice to ensure the fundamental interests and rights of our members are protected,” the union stated.
The leadership expressed hope for a collaborative resolution but emphasized the need for immediate and proactive management intervention to avert escalation.
