THE SSSS ROW MUST END (APRIL 17, 2010)

DISAGREEMENTS over the implementation of the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) continue to rage and the differences, no doubt, threaten the smooth implementation of the new salary structure.
The new structure, which is intended to replace the Ghana Universal Salary Structure (GUSS), has so far come under severe scrutiny by some organised groups such as the Ghana Medical Association and the Civil and Local Government Service Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), resulting in some agitation from these groups.
These agitations are worrying as they do not only threaten the smooth implementation of what appears to be a well-intended scheme but also have the potential to mar the relationship between some organised labour groups in the country and the government.
The recent agitation by CLOGSAG throws into the spotlight other nagging issues that need to be addressed before the scheduled implementation of the scheme in July this year.
The quite combative nature of the agitation, as expressed in the outright rejection of the SSSS by some CLOGSAG members, is worrying, considering the fact that the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has expressed its willingness to pursue the option of consultation to address whatever reservations the organised groups may have.
Over the years, there have been complaints about some weaknesses in the GUSS, necessitating the processes leading to the formulation of the SSSS.
Thus, one easily discerns that inasmuch as there may be some reservations by some group of workers with regard to the SSSS, there is the need to act cautiously in order not to create a very bad impression about a well–intended salary structure.
Indeed, it is disheartening to note that some members of CLOGSAG have reportedly refused to participate in any of the consultative meetings called by the FWSC.
The outright rejection of the structure by the members of CLOGSAG, as reported in the media, is unhealthy, especially as it shows that the group has taken an entrenched position.
The DAILY GRAPHIC believes that it is not the least helpful for any of the parties to adopt an entrenched position, especially when the option of dialogue has not been fully explored.
The Chief Executive of the FWSC, Mr Graham Smith, has consistently declared the commission’s intention to dialogue with any aggrieved party to address whatever reservations they may have.
In the heat of the dissension, it is pleasant to note that the Ashanti Regional branch of CLOGSAG has shown some commitment to pursue the option of dialogue and thus appealed to the government to impress on FWSC to open negotiations with the hierarchy of CLOGSAG to resolve their grievances.
The DAILY GRAPHIC, therefore, urges the FWSC to remain committed to the option of dialogue and not be discouraged by the agitations from some of the organised labour groups.
We, however, wish to caution that any effort at dialogue must be conducted in a sincere and dispassionate manner, to ensure that whatever grievances those organised groups have are effectively addressed.
We also wish to advise the parties to go into the consultations with utmost sincerity and amenable hearts but not entrenched positions.
For the ultimate goal is to find out how best both parties can ensure that there is equity and fairness in the salary structure.