The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) achieved substantial savings of GH₵345 million through its extensive oversight and management efforts in 2023.
This was disclosed by the Minister for Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, during a press briefing on Wednesday, August 28.
He mentioned that the initiative covered 120 public sector institutions with the aim of reducing the wage bill and enhancing transparency in public sector employment.
According to him, these efforts have successfully decreased the wage bill, resulting in substantial savings for the government.
“Last year, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission conducted a nationwide payroll monitoring exercise across 120 public sector institutions, including 97 MMDAs, 6 universities, and 17 other entities. Analysis of the 2023 payroll data from the Controller and Accountant General’s Department showed a reduction in the wage bill by over GH₵345 million. The payroll monitoring is still ongoing,” he said.
Mr. Awuah also noted that, over the past seven and a half years, the Ministry of Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions, with the support of key stakeholders, has successfully resolved all industrial disputes that threatened the country’s peace and security.
“Overall, the payroll monitoring exercise has contributed to a more efficient, transparent, and accountable public sector payroll management system,” he added.
The Minister announced that a review of crucial sector legislation, including the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), is underway to ensure it meets contemporary workplace needs.
The proposed new Labour Bill features several reforms, such as banning certain practices by private employment agencies, extending maternity leave, and enhancing protections against workplace violence and harassment.
Mr. Awuah emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring fair income levels for workers and pensioners.
He highlighted the highest adjustment of the Base Pay since the implementation of the Single Spine Pay Policy in 2010 and a 25 percent increase in monthly pensions for SSNIT pensioners as key achievements.
“The Ministry will continue its work to improve the welfare of workers and employers while maintaining a peaceful labor environment,” he said.
Additionally, he outlined the Ministry’s accomplishments, including strengthening the Labour Department’s operational capacity, creating jobs, and improving pension management.