In a positive turn of events, the Rotational Nurses and Midwives Association (RNMA) has decided to suspend their planned demonstration after engaging in negotiations with the government.
The association had previously taken to the streets to protest against their unfavorable conditions of service. However, following a meeting held between the RNMA leadership and the Ministry of Health on Thursday, a statement released by the group confirmed that they have temporarily put the demonstration on hold.
Government has provided assurances to address the concerns raised by the RNMA, particularly regarding their unpaid allowances. One of the key agreements reached during the meeting was the issuance of financial clearance for the current rotation group of Nurses and Midwives.
Government aims to release the financial clearance by the end of this month, offering hope to the affected members. Furthermore, the requirement for biometric registration, which had been a point of contention, has been waived.
In a notice to its members, the RNMA urged them to remain calm and assured that the leadership is actively working towards ensuring their allowances are fully paid. The association expressed gratitude to the Ghana Registered Nurses And Midwives Association (GRNMA) for their timely interventions and support throughout the negotiation process.
The delayed payment of allowances has placed significant financial burdens on RNMA members, leading to severe hardships. Tragically, the association reported the unfortunate death of one of its members, Paul Dodzi, who allegedly took his own life in Asankragua, Western Region, due to the unbearable economic circumstances caused by the unpaid allowances.
The RNMA has consistently urged the government to prioritize the payment of allowances, highlighting the detrimental effects the delay has had on their members' well-being. The association's decision to suspend the demonstration demonstrates their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and find resolutions through negotiations.
With the government's commitment to releasing financial clearance and waiving biometric registration requirements, the RNMA remains hopeful for a positive outcome. They are now focusing on ensuring that their members receive the long-awaited allowances, providing much-needed relief from the financial strain they have endured.
