Choicenewsonline Your Choice Is Here
The Workers Union of Ghana Water Limited (GWCL) in the Ashanti Region has announced the suspension of its ongoing industrial action following an emergency meeting with company management and major stakeholders. The strike, which began three days ago, resulted in a water supply shutdown, causing significant hardships for residents of the Greater Kumasi Metropolis.
In a press release issued today, the Union expressed its acknowledgment of the difficulties faced by the public during the water supply interruption and reaffirmed its commitment to serving customers in the region. The Union stated that the decision to suspend the strike was made in response to the urgent appeal from the company’s Directors and key stakeholders, who called for a resumption of operations to alleviate the burden on local communities.
The Workers Union expressed solidarity with the public, noting that the shutdown was not intended to harm residents but to draw attention to the unlawful demolition of property belonging to top management of the GWCL in Ashanti. The demolitions, which the Union deems as unlawful, were carried out by a private developer and prompted the strike action.
“The Union recognizes the significant challenges faced by our valued customers during the three-day shutdown of operations. We understand the hardship that this has caused, and as a result, we have decided to suspend our industrial action effective immediately,” the press release stated.
The Union’s decision to halt the strike follows an emergency meeting with the Board and Management of GWCL earlier today. During the meeting, the Directors assured the Union that decisive steps would be taken to protect the residences of Chief Managers and secure all properties under threat. The management has also committed to ensuring that justice is served regarding the demolition of these properties.
“We have received assurances from the Directors that they will take swift and decisive steps to secure our properties and ensure justice is served,” said the Union in the press release. “While we temporarily suspend our industrial action, we want to make it clear that we will closely monitor the progress of these promises and will not hesitate to resume the strike if necessary.”
The Union also took the opportunity to apologize to the public for the disruption in service. “We deeply regret the inconvenience caused to our cherished customers. This was a necessary action to protect the assets of the GWCL and the people of Ashanti and Ghana as a whole,” the Union stated.
As the industrial action comes to an end, the Workers Union assured residents of the Ashanti Region that it remains committed to ensuring the safety and protection of the GWCL’s assets, with a focus on delivering reliable water services to communities. The Union emphasized that they will continue to work towards finding a lasting resolution to the matter.
“We thank the public for their understanding and patience during this challenging time, and we are committed to working toward a lasting resolution,” the Union concluded.
This suspension of industrial action brings a temporary relief to the residents of Kumasi and surrounding areas, who have faced a significant water shortage over the past few days. However, the Union’s vigilance in monitoring management’s response highlights that the matter is far from settled, and the community remains hopeful for a long-term resolution.
End of Release.
