The National Labour Commission (NLC) has raised concerns over inadequate financial allocation, which has hindered its ability to establish offices across all regions and districts as mandated by the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
The Labour Act serves as the cornerstone of employment legislation in Ghana, providing a comprehensive legal framework for regulating working conditions. It covers various aspects of employment, including working hours, overtime, leave, and holidays, ensuring that employees are treated fairly and work in safe environments.
As per the Act, the NLC is required to ensure that its services are accessible to every working citizen, regardless of location. However, financial constraints have prevented the commission from fulfilling this mandate effectively.
Established on March 31, 2004, the NLC has received 12,644 complaints over its 20-year existence. Notably, 75% of these complaints have been successfully resolved, leaving 25% unresolved due to resource limitations.
Currently, the NLC operates offices in only five locations: Accra, Tema, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Sunyani, covering less than 60% of the country. This limited presence has resulted in a backlog of cases, leading to delays as the commission is only able to sit twice a week.
The commission’s mission is to develop and sustain a peaceful labour environment through effective dispute resolution practices, fostering cooperation among labour market stakeholders while ensuring mutual respect for rights and responsibilities.
During a recent program organized by the NLC, the Executive Secretary, Hon. Ofosu Asamoah, emphasized that financial clearance would enable the commission to sit daily, recruit more staff, and establish offices nationwide to serve all Ghanaians.
“With adequate financial support, we would establish more offices, eliminating the need for individuals to travel long distances from areas like Bolgatanga, Tamale, or Wa to seek redress,” he stated.
Hon. Asamoah further explained that since January 2025, the seven-member commission has been unable to hold meetings due to the absence of two government representatives following a change in administration.
He concluded by stating that separate letters have been sent to the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations and the Chief of Staff, requesting the new government to nominate its representatives. This, he said, would enable the commission to fulfill its constitutional duties and enhance labour welfare in Ghana.
By Madjid Diallo || GhanaNewsOnline