GMA studies labour commission's award on compulsory arbitration

The Ghana Medical Association says it is studying the contents of the award made by the Labour commission in respect of the GMA and Fair Wages Commission compulsory arbitration.

The three member committee issued the award after hearing the demands of the GMA and the offer made by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.

Following intransigent stance by the GMA and the FWSC, a three member committee has undertaken a compulsory arbitration between the Ghana Medical Association and the fair Wages and Salaries Commission.

The arbitration became necessary after negotiations broke down between the Fair wages commission and the GMA over their placement on the new pay policy.

After some two weeks of hearing both sides, the committee issued the award.

Joy News has learnt that on the issue of the Grading Structures, both parties have consented to the decisions arrived at during their meeting in Dodowa between 2nd and 5nd October.

With respect to the market premium, the panel has decided that the market premium for doctors be calculated with a fomula stated by the panel.

However on the contentious issue of grades for a district director of medical services and medical superintendent, the panel is of the considered opinion that the matter is outside the jurisdiction of the FWSC and therefore any issues regarding the concerns of GMA can only be raised with the Management of Ghana Health Service who administers the provisions of the GHS and Teaching Hospitals.

In a related development, the newly elected President of the Ghana Medical Association, Dr. Kwabena Opoku Adusei wants all interest groups in the health sector to play their roles effectively to improve health care provision.

Should either side be dissatisfied with the award, they can appeal the decision at the Appeals court.