The Concerned National Service Scheme (NSS) Personnel Association of Ghana (CONSPAG) has launched a nationwide strike today, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, to demand the payment of long-overdue allowances.
In a statement released on July 2, 2024, addressed to all NSS personnel, user agencies, and other stakeholders, the association detailed the severe financial challenges that led to this drastic action. They highlighted the struggles faced by personnel in covering accommodation and utility bills, transportation costs to their respective agencies, and basic sustenance needs at their workplaces.
CONSPAG noted that many NSS personnel have been forced to borrow money to survive due to the prolonged delay in receiving their allowances. The financial hardships have also taken a toll on their health, with some personnel experiencing stress-related health issues.
"We are entitled to our monthly allowance as we render mandatory service to the state. As of now, the government owes trainees five months of allowances and university graduates three months," the statement read. "According to NSS rules and regulations, personnel who fail to report at their post for three months after posting will be sanctioned. We have been working under dire conditions for five and three months without allowances."
This strike underscores the urgent need for the government to address the financial plight of NSS personnel and ensure timely payment of their allowances.