The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has announced a significant achievement in its efforts to streamline public sector payrolls, reporting savings of over GHC 345 million through its nationwide payroll monitoring exercise.

This was revealed during a press soiree held in Osu on Tuesday, November 26, where the Commission engaged with the media to provide updates on its activities and address challenges in public service compensation.

At the event, Benjamin Arthur, the FWSC Chief Executive Officer (CEO),  disclosed that the Commission continues to make strides in implementing the Single Spine Pay Policy (SSPP), a framework introduced to harmonise public service salaries and eliminate disparities.

Over the past year, seven institutions have been successfully migrated to the new grade structure, and negotiations have been concluded with 44 unions and institutions.

Baaba Anquandah, Director of Performance Management, emphasised the importance of linking pay to productivity, noting that nine institutions have been sensitised on performance-based compensation.

“Public sector wages must reflect productivity gains. We are working collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure this principle is upheld,” she said.

The Commission, however, acknowledged challenges faced in 2024, an election year that saw 14 industrial actions, all of which were eventually resolved.

The CEO attributed some of the unrest to fiscal pressures and union demands, adding that continued engagement with stakeholders remains a priority.

In a notable statement, the CEO commended whistleblowers for their critical role in uncovering irregularities in the public sector payroll, which contributed to the significant cost savings.

He reiterated FWSC’s commitment to transparency and accountability in salary administration.

During his presentation, Director of Salary Administration, Cephas Amada, highlighted the foundational goals of the SSPP, including attracting critical skills to the public service and controlling the wage bill.

He outlined the Commission’s phased approach to consolidating allowances and benefits while ensuring equity and sustainability in pay structures.

The FWSC called on the media to support its mission of promoting fairness and equity in public service compensation.

“Your role in fostering transparency and accountability is invaluable,” the CEO said, urging collaboration to ensure the success of reforms in Ghana’s public sector pay system.