The Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana) has renewed its commitment to protecting the interests of Ghanaian workers, particularly in ensuring fair and adequate pay as the country enters the New Year.

While recognising the government’s efforts, the Union stressed that more must be done to address the needs of ordinary workers and Ghanaians who have long endured economic difficulties.

This was contained in a statement signed by the General Secretary of ICU-Ghana, Morgan Ayawine.

The statement noted that while not all expectations for 2025 have been fully met, the progress achieved so far should serve as a springboard to drive workers into the New Year with higher productivity and improved remuneration.

It urged workers not to despair but rather to continue working harder to consolidate the government’s economic gains and ensure their sustainability for the benefit of all.

The Union commended the government for fully recapitalising the National Investment Bank Limited during the year under review, saying this has empowered the bank to deliver effectively on its mandate towards national economic growth.

ICU-Ghana also urged the government to address the financial challenges confronting COCOBOD. It called for the bailout of selected state-owned enterprises, including PBC Limited, Volta Star Textile Limited, Graphic Communications Group Limited, New Times Corporation, and the Pwalugu Tomatoes Factory. The Union further appealed for the completion of processes required for ALUWORKS to bounce back.

According to the statement, these measures would help create jobs for the growing unemployed youth and enable them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic development.

Acknowledging the importance of collaboration in enhancing productivity for sustainable economic growth, ICU-Ghana urged employers to adhere to Collective Agreements and Ghana’s Labour Laws, which regulate industrial relations and promote harmony. It also warned anti-union employers who trample on workers’ labour rights to desist from such practices, noting that such actions carry serious consequences.

In wishing Ghanaian workers well during the festive season, ICU-Ghana urged them to remain dedicated and hardworking in order to promote sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.