The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has assured the Ghana National Petroleum Tankers Drivers Union (GNPTDU) of its commitment to addressing concerns over their working conditions and welfare.
The NPA Chief Executive, Godwin Kudzo Tameklo Esq., gave the assurance during an emergency meeting with executives and members of the union following a series of industrial actions by tanker drivers.
The strikes, which have since been suspended, were largely linked to the poor condition of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR)-Kpone Road and the deteriorating state of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST) yard where drivers park their trucks.
During the meeting, the drivers raised several concerns, including the condition of the TOR road, oil loss control measures and the need for allowances for drivers who undertake long journeys on difficult road networks.
Mr Tameklo said the NPA would work to better understand the issues confronting tanker drivers and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to find practical solutions.
He assured the union that the Authority would take the concerns raised seriously and work towards addressing the challenges affecting their operations.
The engagement forms part of efforts to improve relations between the downstream petroleum regulator and tanker operators, whose activities are critical to the transportation and distribution of petroleum products across the country.
National Chairman of the GNPTDU, George Nyaunu, apologised to the NPA for the union’s failure to formally notify the Authority before embarking on the industrial action.
He thanked the NPA Chief Executive for agreeing to meet the union and for providing an opportunity for members to present their concerns directly.
The union’s engagement with the NPA comes as tanker drivers continue to call for improved road infrastructure, safer operating conditions and better welfare arrangements within the petroleum haulage sector.
Source: businesspostonline
