The National Labour Commission (NLC) has organised a media workshop aimed at strengthening public education on Ghana’s labour laws, dispute resolution procedures and the Commission’s constitutional mandate.

Speaking at the workshop in Accra on Wednesday, Executive Secretary of the NLC, Dr Bernice A. Welbeck, said the initiative is intended to deepen collaboration with the media to improve public understanding of labour and industrial relations issues.

She explained that the Commission exists to ensure fairness for both employers and workers by facilitating the resolution of labour disputes and promoting cooperation in the workplace to enhance productivity.

Dr Welbeck disclosed that the Commission will soon publish educational materials to help the public better understand its work and encourage greater engagement with its services.

She noted that the NLC also handles complaints involving unfair treatment of workers, stressing that while workplace disagreements are inevitable, many disputes can be resolved through the legal procedures provided under Ghana’s labour laws.

“The Commission remains a neutral body. We settle disputes through negotiation, mediation, arbitration and adjudication, and we do not negotiate on behalf of government, employers or workers,” she said.

She urged employers, employees and labour unions to report disputes to the Commission before they escalate into industrial action, adding that strikes, although lawful, must comply with the procedures outlined under the Labour Act.

Dr Welbeck also dismissed claims that the Commission is influenced by political authorities, describing the NLC as an autonomous constitutional body that performs its functions independently.

She explained that the Commission comprises seven members representing government, organised labour and employers, and operates without direction or control from any individual or institution.

The Executive Secretary further noted that the Commission has powers comparable to those of the High Court and can seek court orders to halt illegal strike actions where due process is not followed.

She also called on the media to support the Commission’s public education efforts by informing workers about the lawful avenues available for resolving workplace grievances.

According to her, increased awareness of labour laws and dispute resolution mechanisms will help reduce avoidable industrial disputes, promote compliance with the law and contribute to a more peaceful industrial relations environment in Ghana.