Labour Law Updates and Industrial Action in Ghana

These flashcards cover key points regarding labour law updates, collective bargaining, strikes, and dispute resolution mechanisms in Ghana, based on the lecture notes.

What recent regulatory developments aim to strengthen in Ghana's labour law framework?

Dispute resolution mechanisms, procedural efficiency, and compliance with labour standards.

What does the Labour Regulations, 2007 (L.I. 1833) provide guidance on?

Dispute resolution procedures, arbitration processes, and enforcement mechanisms.

What is the purpose of the National Labour Commission Regulations (L.I. 1822)?

Establishes operational procedures for the Commission, including case management and decision-making timelines.

What challenges do trade unions in Ghana face?

Financial constraints, employer interference, and perceived legal bias.

What are some emerging trends in collective bargaining in Ghana?

Digital transformation and expanding collective agreements for non-statutory benefits.

What is the significance of the Labour Act, 2003 in Ghana?

Provides comprehensive dispute resolution mechanisms and emphasizes dialogue before confrontation.

What role do trade unions play in Ghana's industrial relations?

Serve as the primary voice for organized labour, influencing labour policy and collective bargaining.

What are the risks associated with judicial intervention in industrial actions?

Can escalate labour disputes into constitutional crises and result in perceptions of bias.

What were the primary grievances leading to the 2021 UTAG strike?

Government's failure to restore previous salary levels and loss of confidence in dispute resolution.

How must effective grievance mechanisms function according to the Labour Act?

Employers must establish formal procedures, conduct timely investigations, and respond promptly to grievances.

What is the proposed solution for resolving disputes through independent mediation-arbitration (med-arb)?

A hybrid model combining the mediation phase for negotiation with arbitration for binding decisions.

What role does the National Labour Commission play in industrial disputes?

Facilitates resolution and prevents unlawful strikes through structured processes.

What does the Emergency Powers Act allow the President of Ghana to do during labour disputes?

Declare states of emergency when normal governance structures cannot address crises.

What is necessary for strengthening Ghana's labour laws and enforcement?

Full implementation of labour act provisions, comprehensive training, and updating dispute resolution procedures.

How can trust in dispute resolution processes be improved?

By ensuring transparency in mediator selection, maintaining NLC autonomy, and providing continuous professional development.