Smith-Graham’s resignation could threaten sustainability of single spine – ICU

The Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU) is expressing worry over the sudden resignation of CEO for Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, George Smith-Graham.

The union describes his exit as a shock and an irreparable loss to the labour front. George Smith Graham who resigned on Wednesday February 8 said he was going to pursue personal interests.

General Secretary for the ICU, Solomon Kotei says sustaining the single spine pay policy is under threat with the exit of the CEO.

Solomon Kotei further explained that when heads of public institutions exit their positions because a new government has been sworn in, it affects the economy in very serious ways.

Meanwhile, the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) says it is indifferent about the sudden exit of the Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.

According to the association, even though Smith-Graham saw the single spine pay policy through its full implementation, the scheme did not address its concerns.

GHOSPA has been on several strikes to register their displeasure over what it describes as persistent act of injustice, unfairness and deliberate delay by the National Labour Commission, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission in relation to their Interim Market Premium, Grade Structure and Placement and the Conditions of Service.

Immediate past chairman of GHOSPA Steven Korkui noted that George Smith-Graham throughout his reign as CEO could not address all their issues.

“Honestly migrating to the single spine salary was not the best option. We were better of when we were on the previous scheme. It reduced pensions as well as salaries. Issues about GHOSPA was not well addressed”