GCAA rejects GhATSEA allegations of unfair labour practices and intimidation

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has rejected allegations of unfair labour practices and intimidation made by the Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) against its Director-General, Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur. The GCAA defended its deployment of National Security personnel at some of its installations, stating it was necessary to protect critical aviation infrastructure.

The dispute originated from an intended industrial action by GhATSEA, which the GCAA referred to the National Labour Commission (NLC). The NLC ruled that the proposed strike was illegal on three grounds, including that GhATSEA lacked legal capacity to declare a strike. Despite this ruling, GhATSEA allegedly instructed members to proceed with the industrial action and instructed them not to handle equipment in certain areas.

The GCAA dismissed these allegations as a serious safety and security concern, leading to the presence of National Security personnel. The Authority defended the actions of its Director-General and National Security personnel, stating it was guided by its responsibility to maintain aviation safety. The GCAA also dismissed claims of coercion, intimidation, or victimisation by its leadership.