NLC orders Transport Ministry to negotiate salary plan for railway workers

The National Labour Commission (NLC) has stepped in to address the crisis at the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL), directing the Ministry of Transport to immediately sit down with management and the workers’ union to design a clear payment schedule for 12 months of unpaid salaries and future wage obligations.

The directive, issued in a statement on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, follows a strike notice by the Railway Workers’ Union that took effect on September 30 over the year-long salary arrears and growing fears of job losses.

According to the Commission, the matter goes beyond GRCL’s internal operations since the government is the sole shareholder of the company.

“If GRCL cannot pay its workers, then it is the responsibility of the Government as the sole shareholder to assume that liability,” the Commission stressed.

It further warned that continued non-payment would only worsen the situation:

The NLC also acknowledged the deep anxiety among workers who fear the prolonged non-payment may lead to retrenchments or collapse of operations. It called on stakeholders to broaden discussions to cover the long-term viability and sustainability of the company, beyond the immediate wage crisis.

The Ministry of Transport and the Railway Workers’ Union have been given one week to present an update on the outcome of their negotiations. The matter has been adjourned to Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.