The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has ridiculed Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh’s appeal for retirees to volunteer their services amidst the ongoing strike.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, GRNMA Public Relations Officer Joseph Krampah questioned the efficiency and physical ability of the retirees, given their age.
“We thank the Minister for his efforts in trying to resolve our situation. But how can old people, some of whom are using walking sticks and have weak knees, take our jobs? How can they lift sick people? How many of these retirees do we even have?” he asked, amid subtle laughter.
The Minister made the appeal during a press conference on Tuesday, June 10, at the Jubilee House, acknowledging the impact of the strike which began on June 4.
The strike, which has severely affected healthcare delivery across the country, is aimed at demanding the implementation of the 2024 Collective Agreement, which is yet to be enforced.
Four unions — including the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives Ghana (UPNMG), the Professional Association of Psychiatric Nurses Ghana (PAPNG), and the National Association of Registered Midwives Ghana (NARM-GH) — have opted out.
However, Mr. Krampah emphasised that their withdrawal does not in any way undermine the strike’s impact and stressed the need for government to act in good faith.
“They know the solution. Instead of resolving the issue, they have decided to maneuver. The Minister is throwing dust into the eyes of Ghanaians. They can begin implementing parts of our conditions of service while discussions continue on the rest. It’s simple,” he said.
“They have seen the impact of the strike, even with some people opting out. If they’ve decided to turn a blind eye to our plight, then we will also remain adamant,” he added.
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