Western Region office of the Labor Commission launched

January 20, 2011 Takoradi, Jan. 20, GNA - Madam Betty Busumtwi-Sam, Deputy Western Regional Minister, on Wednesday called on employers and employees to recognize the rights of each other for industrial harmony to prevail in the region.

She made the call at the launching of the Regional office of the National Labour Commission (NLC) at Takoradi.

Madam Busumtwi-Sam said industrial harmony was especially needed at this time to ensure that the oil find accelerated the development of the region.

She hoped the Regional Labour Committee would help to develop and sustain harmonious environment through effective dispute resolution practices.

Madam Busumtwi-Sam further urged the Committee to be fair in its deliberations and avoid playing politics with labour matters.

Mr Kofi Asamoah, Secretary-General of the Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC), drew attention to the upsurge of workers right violations in the country.

He said the rights of workers including the right to form and join trade unions were being violated particularly in the private sector with impunity.

Mr Asamoah asked employers in the private sector particularly foreign employers to respect the rights and freedoms of workers in the country.

While commending the NLC for the good work done over the years, he expressed the TUC's frustration over the delays in dealing with workers complaints.

Launching the Offices, Mr Joseph Aryitey, Chairman of the NLC, said the Western Region Office was the first regional office to be established.

This is because of the production of oil and industrial activities in the area, he said.

GNA