Mortuaries to Shut Down as Workers Strike!

The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) has served notice to embark on an indefinite strike, starting on Thursday, September 26, 2024.

MOWAG said the notice of the indefinite nationwide strike is in accordance with Section 159 of Act 651(2003) of the constitution.

The move, the group said is to exercise their fundamental human rights as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
The workers have declared an indefinite strike over unresolved issues with their employer, citing the failure to meet their long-standing demands.

Among the demands are the provision of adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and payment of salary arrears dating back to 2020.

Other demands are financial clearance for the employment of 500 additional mortuary workers as well as the payment of the COVID-19 bonus promised to mortuary workers by the President.

The strike comes in response to what the workers describe as deliberate inaction from the authorities.

MOWAG expressed concern about the alarming rate of deaths among mortuary workers due to poor working conditions, for which they call for urgent action.

The association in a statement dated September 17, 2024, and signed by its General Secretary, Richard Jordan, said “Notice is hereby respectfully served on your high office that, starting from Thursday, 26th September 2024; Mortuary workers shall exercise their rights as guaranteed in the 1992 Constitution by withdrawing all services”

The statement says that all mortuaries have been ordered to close, and employees are urged to stay at home until the necessary tasks are completed.
In their notice, MOWAG made it clear that no further hearings or discussions would take place until their demands are implemented.

They also directed all members to close mortuaries and stay at home, informing the general public to expect the closure.

The strike is expected to have a significant impact on mortuary services across the country if their demands are not met before the deadline.