Acting CEO of the FWSC, Dr George Smith-Graham
The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has proposed the introduction of an hourly wage system across all sectors as a means of enhancing earnings for casual workers and promoting fairer compensation practices.
Dr George Smith-Graham, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the FWSC, made this suggestion during a familiarisation visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions.
As part of its visit, the Committee also engaged with the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) and the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI).
According to Dr Smith-Graham, implementing an hourly wage structure could help formalise informal work arrangements, increase disposable income for low-wage earners, and expand access to social protection.
“If we begin to look at an hourly wage structure, it will allow casual workers to be better compensated for their time and could help reduce income inequalities in the labour market,” he stated.
He added that the approach would bring greater transparency to wage calculations for both employers and employees.
During discussions with the NPRA, officials informed the Committee of existing provisions that allow permanently unemployed individuals aged 50 and above to access their Tier-2 pension funds, subject to employer verification and Labour Department approval.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Pensions and Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Chris Boadi-Mensah also called for a review of Ghana’s retirement age, proposing an increase from 60 to 65 years.
He warned that the current pension system could face long-term financial instability and emphasized the need for reforms to prevent misuse and ensure sustainability.
ID/MA