Labour expert Austin Gamey has expressed strong support for the government’s decision to temporarily engage retired nurses and midwives to mitigate the impact of the ongoing strike by members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA).
In an interview with Adom News, Mr. Gamey emphasized the urgent need for action to safeguard public health during the industrial action.
“It is the duty of the government, the Ministry of Health, and other relevant bodies to take swift and decisive steps to ensure citizens continue to receive healthcare,” he stated.
While acknowledging the constitutional right of nurses and midwives to embark on a strike, Mr. Gamey stressed that the government must adopt alternative strategies to prevent loss of life.
“I’m not against the strike by GRNMA members, but the government cannot sit idly by while lives are put at risk. Alternative measures must be implemented,” he said.
His remarks follow an appeal by the Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, urging retired nurses and midwives who are willing and able to return to service temporarily as negotiations with the GRNMA continue.
Mr. Gamey described the government’s call to retired health professionals as a necessary short-term solution to maintain essential healthcare services.
“It’s a pragmatic step to bring in experienced retirees during this crisis. The priority now should be saving lives,” he added.
He further appealed to the striking nurses and midwives to reconsider their action, citing the severe impact on patients and the general public.
“I appeal to our nurses and midwives to reflect on the hardships patients are going through. Let’s not allow innocent lives to be lost—return to work as negotiations continue,” he pleaded.
The Ministry of Health has clarified that the engagement of retired personnel is a temporary measure aimed at easing the pressure on the healthcare system while talks with the GRNMA progress.
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