The Concerned National Service Scheme (NSS) Personnel Association of Ghana (CONSPAG) has declared a nationwide strike that would last until their allowances are paid, beginning this Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

The announcement was issued to all NSS employees, user agencies, and other stakeholders in a statement dated July 2, 2024.

The association listed a number of issues that made the decision to start the strike action necessary. These included not being able to pay for their housing and utilities, getting to and from other user agencies, feeding themselves at work, and having to borrow money from other sources in order to subsist because their allowances were not being paid.

They also emphasized how these difficulties can lead to the emergence of health issues.

According to the group, the government presently owes university graduates three months’ allowance and trainees five months.

The association made note of the fact that employees who do not report to work for three months after posting are subject to sanctions under NSS rules and regulations.

However, it claimed that they had been working in hostile environments for five and three months, respectively, without receiving any compensation.

The group denounced the situation as tantamount to slavery, noting that their labor is demoralized, and their devotion to the nation is not adequately appreciated.

It emphasized that the majority of public and private institutions in the state have benefited greatly from the work of National Service Personnel, and their productivity cannot be overlooked.

The group appealed to all public and private stakeholders to support them in their efforts to ensure that allowances are paid on time, including media outlets, political figures, and traditional leaders.