Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has taken a significant step towards promoting industrial harmony in Ghana by engaging the media in a bid to enhance public understanding of labour relations and dispute resolution.
This strategic partnership aims to bridge the knowledge gap between the Commission, the media, and the general public.
According to Executive Secretary Hon. Ofosu Asamoah, the media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and ensuring accurate information dissemination.
Nationl Labour Commission Strengthens Ties with Media to Promote Industrial Harmony
He emphasized that labour stability is essential for economic growth and investor confidence, highlighting Ghana’s transition from colonial-era “master-servant” labour relations to a more balanced social partnership approach.
According to him, “The media has a critical role to play in promoting industrial harmony.”
Stressing that, “By working together, we can ensure that accurate information is disseminated to the public, and that labour disputes are resolved in a fair and efficient manner.”
The engagement, held on 13th February , 2025 at the Shippers Authority Hall, Accra brought together media practitioners and NLC officials, aimed to bridge the knowledge gap between the two parties.
Participants at the workshop
Discussions focused on the NLC’s mandate, dispute resolution procedures, and best practices for media reporting on labour conflicts.
By strengthening its relationship with the media, the NLC aims to foster industrial harmony and ensure compliance with labour laws in Ghana.
This collaboration is expected to promote a better understanding of labour issues among the general public and ultimately contribute to Ghana’s economic growth and development.
Established nearly two decades ago, the National Labour Commission (NLC) serves as an independent arbiter in labour disputes.
Its core functions include facilitating the settlement of industrial disputes and providing dispute resolution services.
Nationl Labour Commission Strengthens Ties with Media to Promote Industrial Harmony
Despite its critical role, public awareness of the NLC’s functions remains low, leading to misinterpretations in media discussions.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bernice Welbeck, Director of Administration & Human Resources at the NLC indicated that, since its inception in 2005, the NLC has received over 12,000 complaints, affecting over 10 million workers.
Dr. Bernice Welbeck, Director of Administration & Human Resources at the NLC
Notably, the Commission she said has successfully resolved 75% of these cases, with 87% of industrial disputes, including strikes and lockouts, also being resolved.
She believed that, by engaging the media on dispute settlement procedures under the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), the NLC aims to promote public understanding of labour laws will be achieved.
She was optimistic that, the collaborative effort will ensure accurate reporting on labour issues, ultimately contributing to a more informed and fair labour environment in Ghana.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
