THE CONSTITUTION AND INTERNAL REGULATIONS

THE CONSTITUTION AND INTERNAL REGULATIONS OF THE GHANA TRADES UNION CONGRESS

THE CONSTITUTION AND INTERNAL REGULATIONS OF THE GHANA TRADES UNION CONGRESS AS AMENDED AT THE 8 TH QUADRENNIAL DELEGATES CONGRESS HELD AT THE KWAME NKRUMAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, KUMASI FROM 10 TH AUGUST TO 14 TH AUGUST, 2008

TABLE OF CONTENTS CONSTITUTION Page The Preamble and Pledge ARTICLE 1. Name and Office 2. Registration 3. Aims and Objectives 4. Membership 5. Rights of Affiliated National Unions 6. Responsibilities of Affiliated National Unions 7. Rights of Associate Unions/Organisations 8. Responsibilities of Associate Unions/Organisations 9. Finance and Audit 10. Structure 11. Delegates Congress 12. Extra Ordinary Delegates Congress 13. Executive Board 14. Steering Committee 15. Executive Committee 16. Officers and their duties 17. Finance Board 18. The Secretariat 19. Regional Councils of Labour 20. District Councils of Labour 21. Executive Committees 22. National Women s Committee 23. Regional Women s Committee 24. District Women s Committee 25. Quorum 26. Affiliation/Association 27. Withdrawal 28. Sanctions 29. Amendments to Constitution 30. Amendments to Internal Regulations 31. Neutrality (Independence) of Leadership Clause 32. Oath of Office 33. Dissolution 34. Interpretation/Definitions 35. Commencement

INTERNAL REGULATIONS 1. Apportionment of Union Dues 2. Bank Accounts and Mandatory Signatories 3. Appointment of Auditors 4. Composition of Congress 5. Convening Congress 6. Officers and Officials of Congress 7. Secretariat of Congress 8. Plenary Sessions of Congress 9. Committees of Congress 10. Credentials Committee 11. Standing Orders Committee 12. Policies, Regulations, and Resolutions Committee 13. Constitution Committee 14. Elections Committee 15. General Provisions Governing Congress Committees 16. The appointment and duties of Returning Officers 17. Financing of Congress 18. Position of Women Vice-Chairperson 19. Process of Succession 20. Removal of Officers 21. Meetings of the Executive Board 22. Conditions of Service of Elected Officers 23. Standing Committees of the Executive Board 24. Political and Organisation Committee 25. International Affairs Committee 26. Education Committee 27. Social and Economic Committee 28. Health, Safety and Environment Committee 29. Ad Hoc Committees 30. Alternate Membership of Executive Board 31. Alternate Membership of Steering Committee 32. Alternate Membership of Committees 33. Solidarity Fund 34. Disputes Settlement 35. Rules of Procedure 36. Majority 37. Voting 38. Official Language 39. Affiliation 40. Withdrawal 41. Sanctions 42. Mergers 43. Breach of Neutrality of Leadership Clause 44. Oath of Office 45. Appendix 46. Proposed Structure 47. Schedule Page

THE PREAMBLE AND PLEDGE We, the existing Trade Unions, being representatives of the workers of Ghana, determined to uphold the dignity of Labour by maintaining a genuine organization of workers which is independent of external control or domination and which therefore decides its own policies and actions in response to workers true needs, and conscious of our duty to serve faithfully and unswervingly the workers and our Nation, pledge ourselves: To the effective organization of working people which is the ultimate guarantee for the protection and promotion of the rights and duties of labour. To the achievement of high living standards, improved wages and better working conditions. To the achievement of high productivity To the attainment of shorter hours of work To improvements in security against sickness, unemployment, invalidity, old age, accidents and other hazards of life and work. To the provision of adequate opportunities for recreation To the struggle for the recognition and the defence of all rights of labour. To the realization of the unity and solidarity of organized labour as a whole. Aware of our rights and responsibilities as citizens at the workplace and in the community, in the exercise of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; Shall serve the interest of labour and of the people of Ghana Shall work for the strengthening of our national institutions in conformity with our national way of life and aspirations, our commitment to freedom, justice and democracy. Shall resolutely defend and uphold the democratic foundation on which our Nation must be built. Shall strive to win full respect for the dignity and rights of the human individual whom we serve. Shall seek the fulfilment of our aspirations and hopes and the achievement of our objectives through democratic processes and within the framework of constitutional government and concern for the welfare of the country. Do hereby adopt and give to ourselves this Constitution and the accompanying subordinate Internal Regulations. ARTICLE 1 NAME AND OFFICE 1. The Organisation established by this Constitution shall be known as the GHANA TRADES UNION CONGRESS hereinafter referred to as the Ghana TUC. 2. The Headquarters of the Ghana TUC shall be at the Hall of Trade Unions, off Barnes and Liberia Roads, Tudu, Accra or any other place as the Executive Board of Ghana TUC may decide, subject to the approval of the Quadrennial Delegates Congress.

ARTICLE 2 REGISTRATION The Ghana TUC shall be a body corporate registered under the laws of Ghana. ARTICLE 3 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The Ghana TUC shall concern itself with all matters affecting the workers of Ghana and shall take such action as may be considered necessary with special reference to the following matters: 1. To Secure complete organisation of all workers in Ghana into the ranks of a united trade union movement. 2. To assist in recruiting members for the affiliated National Unions 3. To help build in Ghana, a society in which social, political and economic justice prevail and with this in view, generally to improve the social and economic conditions of workers by collective action through the Ghana TUC and by promoting the interests of its affiliated National Unions specifically in securing improved wages, shorter hours of work and better conditions of service. 4. To promote the provision of social services by the State and Local Government Authorities and other Bodies such as Unemployment and sickness insurance, old age pensions, child care, maternity etc. 5. To promote adequate arrangements for workers to participate in decision making at their workplaces. 6. To assist and encourage the coordination of activities of the affiliated National Unions at the regional and district levels. 7. To assist and encourage affiliated National Unions of the Ghana TUC to extend the benefits of collective bargaining, economic advancement and mutual assistance to the workers without regard to race, colour, creed, nationality, religion or ancestry and to give full recognition to the fact that a United Trade Union Movement is the accepted policy to Ghana TUC. 8. To preserve and maintain the integrity of affiliated National Unions of the Ghana TUC to the end that each Union shall respect the established bargaining relationship of every other union, refrain from ruining such relationship through publication and to encourage the elimination of conflicts and disputes under the jurisdiction of and in consultation with the appropriate Committee of the Congress. 9. To support and be involved in the national effort of economic development through efficient worker performance and maximum productivity and to work for a more equitable sharing of the national income. 10. To affiliate with or to subscribe to or assist any organisation within or outside Ghana having similar objects to those of the Ghana TUC. 11. To promote, aid and encourage the establishment of co-operatives and other economic enterprises owned wholly or partly by workers or by the Ghana TUC on their behalf and to encourage the sale and use of union goods and services. 12. To protect, strengthen, preserve and develop the cherished traditions and institutions of democracy and to secure fully the rights and liberties to which labour is entitled. 13. To give constructive aid in promoting the cause of national freedom of oppressed people and world peace, and to this end, assist and co-operate with free, democratic and progressive labour movements throughout the world.

14. To maintain and safeguard the democratic character of the labour movement and protect it from hostile forces and infiltration by subversive elements opposed to democratic and free trade unionism. 15. To encourage workers to register and vote in exercise of their full rights and responsibilities as citizens and to perform their rightful part in the political life of the local, district, regional and national communities and in the building of a democratic society in Ghana. 16. To secure the ratification and application of ILO Conventions, the enactment of legislations for the defence and promotion of the rights and interests of labour and of the objectives of the Ghana TUC, as laid down in this Constitution; and to oppose legislations and policies contrary to the interest of labour and to the objects of the Ghana TUC. 17. To encourage and foster educational and publicity work with the object of increasing the knowledge and understanding of national and international problems confronting workers which will enable them to make their struggle for economic and social freedom more effective. 18. In pursuance of these aims and objects, the Ghana TUC may do or authorise to be done all such acts and things as it considers necessary. ARTICLE 4 MEMBERSHIP Membership of the Ghana Trades Union Congress shall consists of all affiliated National Unions and Associate Unions/Organisations. Rights ARTICLE 5 RIGHTS OF AFFILIATED NATIONAL UNIONS 1. All affiliated National Unions shall be free to express themselves in respect of the operations of the Ghana TUC and active discussion of Ghana TUC affairs shall be encouraged and protected within the Ghana TUC. 2. All affiliated National Unions shall have the right to full participation in the decision making process of the Ghana TUC and to all information needed for the exercise of this right. 3. All affiliated National Unions may request the assistance of the Ghana TUC in collective bargaining and settlement of industrial disputes, for solidarity support in legal and financial matters, for educational and training programmes, on economic issues and research programmes, publicity and in settlement of inter and intra union disputes and any other matter in which the assistance of the Ghana TUC may be required. 4. No affiliated National Union or its officers shall be penalised for any offence unless such offence is provided for in this Constitution. In penalising any affiliated National Union or its officer, that Union or officer shall have the right to a fair hearing. 5. All affiliated National Unions shall have the right to full and clear accounting of all Ghana TUC funds. 6. All affiliated National Unions shall have the right to fair and democratic elections at all levels of the Ghana TUC as provided for in this Constitution. 7. All affiliated National Unions shall have equal right to nominate candidates for election as officers subject to the provisions of this Constitution.

Responsibilities ARTICLE 6 RESPONSIBILITIES OF AFFILIATED UNIONS 1. Every affiliated National Union shall defend this Constitution and strive to promote the objects and purpose thereof. 2. All affiliated National Unions shall accept: a. the authority of Congress and its governing bodies. b. to implement decisions of the Ghana TUC and governing bodies. c. to report to the Ghana TUC, disputes with employers including disputes likely to arise, information on disputes and collective bargaining within their jurisdiction as may be required by the Ghana TUC. d. the authority of the Executive Board of the Ghana TUC in the settlement of industrial disputes. e. the authority of the Executive Board of Ghana TUC in settlement of inter and intra union disputes. f. to submit extracts of their activity reports and any emergency developments thereafter to the Ghana TUC. g. That the Ghana TUC shall have observer status at meetings of National Executive Council of the Affiliated National Unions. ARTICLE 7 RIGHTS OF ASSOCIATE UNIONS/ORGANISATIONS 1. All Associate Unions/Organisations shall be free to express themselves in respect of the operations of Ghana TUC. 2. No Associate Union/Organisation or its officers shall be penalised for any offence unless such offence is provided for in this constitution. In penalising any associate Union/Organisation or its officers, that Union/Organisation shall have right to fair hearing. 3. All Associate Unions/Organisations shall have the right to full and clear accounting of all Ghana TUC funds. 4. All Associate Unions/Organisations may attend Congress and meetings of other structures of the Ghana TUC as observers. 5. All Associate/Organisations may request the assistance of Ghana TUC in settlement of disputes, for solidarity support in legal and financial matters and for educational and training programmes. ARTICLE 8 RESPONSIBILITIES OF ASSOCIATE UNION/ORGANISATIION 1. Every Associate Union/Organisation shall defend this Constitution and strive to promote the objects and purpose thereof. 2. All Associate Union/Organisation shall accept: a. the authority of Congress and its governing bodies. b. to implement decisions of the Ghana TUC and governing bodies and c. to report to the Ghana TUC disputes, information on disputes within their jurisdiction as may be required by the Ghana TUC.

d. the authority of the Executive Board of the Ghana TUC in the settlement of industrial disputes. e. the authority of the Executive Board of the Ghana TUC in the settlement of inter and intra union disputes. f. to submit extracts of their activity reports and any emergency developments thereafter to the Ghana TUC. g. the Ghana TUC shall have observer status at meetings of National Executive Council of the Associate Unions/Organisations. h. the activities of the Associate Unions/Organisations shall not conflict with that of Ghana TUC. ARTICLE 9 FINANCE AND AUDIT 1. The funds of the Ghana TUC shall be derived from a percentage of voluntary check-off dues from members of the affiliated National Unions, subscription fees of Associate Unions/Organisations, levies, loans, grants, donations and income from investments. 2. Out of the membership dues of every worker who is a member of an affiliated National Union and which shall not be less than 1% of the monthly wage or salary of the worker, 30% shall be paid to the Ghana TUC. 3. Dues payable by members of National Unions which organise workers in establishments that do not operate the check-off system shall not be less than 0.3% of the national minimum wage. 4. The Accounts of the Ghana TUC shall be audited annually by a reputable audit institution that shall be appointed by the Ghana TUC. 5. The financial year of the Ghana TUC shall commence from 1 st of January and end on the 31 st of December of each year. 6. Subscription of Associate Unions/Organisations shall be determined by the Executive Board in consultation with the Unions/Organisations. ARTICLE 10 STRUCTURE The structure of the Ghana TUC shall be made up of the following bodies: a. The Delegates Congress b. The Executive Board c. The Steering Committee d. The Executive Committee e. The Finance Board f. The Secretariat g. The Regional Councils of Labour h. The District Councils of Labour ARTICLE 11 DELEGATES CONGRESS Powers 1. The Delegates Congress hereinafter referred to as the Congress shall be vested

with supreme authority and except as otherwise provided for in this Constitution its decision shall be final and binding and not subject to any variation other than by itself. Composition 2. Persons entitled to attend the Congress shall consist of the following: a. delegates of the affiliated National Unions, which are not in arrears of dues through their own default, Observers and Officials. b. selection of delegates by affiliated National Unions shall comply with the following criteria: (i) paid up membership up to five thousand (5,000) shall be entitled to six (6) delegates. (ii) Thereafter every additional One Thousand Five Hundred (1,500) paid up members or part thereof shall be entitled to one (1) additional delegate. c. criteria for selecting observers from affiliated National Unions and Associate Unions/Organisations shall be established by the Executive Board. Meetings 3. The Regular Delegates Congress shall be held once in every four years. Duties 4. The Regular Delegates Congress shall consider the following: a. the Report of the Executive Board for the period under review. b. the Audited Financial Report for the period under review. c. Proposal for amendments of the Constitution. d. the election of the following officers of the Ghana TUC: The Chairperson, The first Vice-Chairperson, The Second Vice-Chairperson, Secretary-General, the Deputy Secretary-General; and Members of the Finance Board. e. the policies and resolutions of the Ghana TUC f. any other business properly brought before it. Meeting ARTICLE 12 - EXTRA-ORDINARY DELEGATES CONGRESS

1. The Executive Board may convene an Extra-Ordinary Delegates Congress at any time by giving not less than one (1) month notice to all affiliated National Unions in writing. 2. Upon a request by not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the affiliated National Unions the Executive Board shall convene an Extra-Ordinary Delegates Congress by giving not less than one month notice to all the affiliated National Unions in writing. 3. Notice for convening an Extra-Ordinary Delegates Congress shall be given within one month after a request has been made. 4. Every notice shall specify the nature of the business for which the meeting is requested. Voting Rights 5. At any Congress, every accredited delegate shall be entitled to one (1) vote. Composition ARTICLE 13 EXECUTIVE BOARD 1. The Executive Board shall be composed of the following: (a) Elected Members (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) The Chairperson of Ghana TUC The First Vice-Chairperson of Ghana TUC The Second Vice-Chairperson of Ghana TUC The Secretary-General The Deputy Secretary-General The National Chairpersons of the Affiliated National Unions The General Secretaries of the affiliated National Unions. (b) Ex-Officio Members (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) The Heads of Specialised Department of Ghana TUC The Regional Secretaries of Ghana TUC Desk officers of Ghana TUC The Chairperson of the Finance Board The Chairpersons of Regional Councils of Labour The Chairpersons of Regional Women s Committees of Ghana TUC Representatives of Associate Unions Powers 2. Between the period of meetings of the Congress, the Executive Board of the Ghana TUC shall be vested with the highest authority. Meetings 3. The Executive Board shall meet at least once every six months. Duties

4. The Executive Board shall undertake the following: a. Consider reports received from the Steering Committee and Executive Committee b. Review developments in the relations between the affiliated National Unions and refer unresolved disputes among the affiliated National Unions to the Congress. c. Endeavour to adjudicate in disputes and differences among Affiliated National Unions and refer unresolved disputes among the affiliated National Unions to the Congress. d. Approve budgetary proposals of the Ghana TUC e. Appoint any of its members or Committees or any other Committee of the Ghana TUC to enter into any transactions to execute contracts in the name of the Ghana TUC. f. Convene Congress whenever necessary. g. Consider report on activities of the Ghana TUC for consideration by the Congress. h. Amend the internal Regulations. i. Encourage and promote the establishment of Regional and District Councils of Labour. j. Appoint ad hoc Committees to deal with particular issues as and when they arise. k. Establish a special Solidarity Fund l. Establish Standing Committees to undertake specific functions. m. Establish Specialised Departments to assist the Secretary-General in the performance of his/her duties. n. Confirm the appointment of the Heads of Departments made by the Secretary-General. o. Appoint auditors of the Ghana TUC p. Consider annual audited Financial Reports of the Ghana TUC q. Adopt annual plans and programmes that will facilitate the work of the Ghana TUC r. Take any action consistent with the aims and objects of the Ghana TUC Voting Rights 5. Only elected members of the Executive Board shall have voting rights Composition ARTICLE 14 STEERING COMMITTEE 1. The Steering Committee shall be composed of the following: (a). Elected Members (i). The Chairperson of the Ghana TUC (ii). The First Vice-Chairperson of the Ghana TUC (iii) The Second Vice-Chairperson of the Ghana TUC (iv). The Secretary-General (v). The Deputy Secretary-General (vi). The General Secretaries of the affiliated National Unions

(b). Ex-Officio Members (i). The Heads of Specialised Departments of the Ghana TUC (ii). Desk Officers of Ghana TUC (iii). Representatives of Associate Unions Powers 2. Between meetings of the Executive Board, the Steering Committee shall exercise the powers as the Executive Board may delegate to it. Meetings 3. The Steering Committee shall meet at least once in every two months Duties 4. The Steering Committee shall have the following duties: a. consider reports received from the Executive Committee. b. intervene in disputes between the affiliated National Unions and employers at the request of affiliated National Unions or if the considered opinion of the Steering Committee such intervention is necessary c. take any action consistent with the aims and objects of the Ghana TUC Voting Rights 5. Only elected members of the Steering Committee shall have voting rights. ARTICLE 15 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Composition 1. The Executive Committee shall consist of the elected officers of the Ghana TUC. Duties 2. The Executive Committee shall meet once every month and shall have the following duties: a. Elaborate programmes for the implementation of decisions of the Executive Board and the Steering Committee. b. Consider reports from the office of the Secretary-General. c. Generally assess and review the day to day administration of the Ghana TUC Voting Rights 3. All members of the Executive Committee shall have voting rights at its meetings. ARTICLE 16 - OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES

Officers 1. The Officers of the Ghana TUC shall be the following: a. The Chairperson of the Ghana TUC b. The First Vice-Chairperson of the Ghana TUC c. The Second Vice-Chairperson of the Ghana TUC d. The Secretary-General e. The Deputy Secretary-General 2 (a) The Officers of the Ghana TUC shall be elected at a session of the Congress and shall serve for a term of four (4) years unless otherwise provided for in this Constitution and shall be eligible for re-election. (b) The officers of the Ghana TUC shall not be eligible to hold offices for more than two terms in the same position. Qualification 3. Only members of affiliated National Unions of the Ghana TUC who have fully paid up their dues and have held local, branch, divisional or national office in any of the affiliated National Unions for a total number of not less than four (4) years shall be eligible for nomination and election. 4. The qualification stated above shall be applicable to all Officers of the Ghana TUC. Duties 5. (a) The Chairperson of the Ghana TUC who is not a full time Officer shall perform the following duties: (i) preside over meetings of all governing bodies of the Ghana TUC (ii) ensure observance of the Constitution and decisions of the governing bodies of the Ghana TUC. (iii) in conjunction with other authorised persons sign all cheques and other documents on behalf of the Ghana TUC (iv) serve as ex-officio member of the Finance Board of the Ghana TUC (v) perform any other duties that may be assigned to him by the Executive Board or the Congress. (b) The First and Second Vice-Chairperson of the Ghana TUC who are not full time Officers shall perform the following duties: (i). assist the Chairperson in the performance of all duties. (ii). perform the duties of the Chairperson whenever the chairperson is absent. (iii). in conjunction with other authorised persons sign all cheques and other documents on behalf of the Ghana TUC (iv). perform any other duties that may be assigned to them by the Executive Board of the Congress. (c). The Secretary-General who is a full time Chief Executive of the Ghana TUC shall perform the following duties: (i) act as the overall supervisor of the Secretariat of the Ghana TUC (ii) employ and manage the staff of the Ghana TUC

(iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) (viii) (ix) act as advisor to all the affiliated National Unions. act as Spokesperson of the Ghana TUC be responsible for the financial administration of the Ghana TUC be responsible for the preparation of the Annual Budget and other Financial Statements for consideration by the Executive Board. submit on behalf of the Executive Board to the Congress Report on Activities and Financial Statements of the Ghana TUC sign cheques and documents of the Ghana TUC in conjunction with other authorised persons. perform any other duties which may be assigned to him by the Congress or the Executive Board. (a) The Deputy Secretary-General who is a Deputy Chief Executive of the Ghana TUC shall perform the following: (i) have direct responsibility for the Administration, Finance, International Affairs, Public Affairs, Education and Training, Research, Organisation and Legal and Industrial Relations of the Ghana TUC (ii) in conjunction with other authorised persons sign cheques and other documents on behalf of the Ghana TUC (iii) be an ex-officio Member of all Specialised Committees of Congress (iv) perform any other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the Secretary-General. Acting 6. (a) In the absence of the Secretary-General, the Deputy Secretary- General shall act. (b) Where the Secretary-General and the Deputy General Secretary are not available or are incapable of performing their functions, a General Secretary of any of the affiliated National Unions shall act. ARTICLE 17 FINANCE BOARD Composition 1. a. There shall be a Finance Board of not more than nine (9) members who shall be elected at the Congress from among the affiliated National unions and serve for a period of four (4) years.

b. The Board shall elect a Chairman from among its members and the Secretary-General shall appoint a Secretary to the Board in consultation with the Executive Committee. Qualification 2. Any person to be nominated and elected as a member of the Finance Board shall possess the following qualifications: a. be a full member of any of the affiliated National Unions. b. be a dues-paying member for not less than four continuous years immediately preceding the date of the election. c. must have held local, branch, divisional or national office in any of the affiliated National Unions for a total number of not less than four (4) years. d. possess an appreciable knowledge in finance. Duties 3. The Finance Board shall meet three times in a year and shall have the following duties: a. deal with the funds and properties of the Ghana TUC b. provide advice for financial assistance in the form of overdraft and loans, whenever requested to do so by the Executive Board. c. prepare budgetary proposals for consideration and approval of the Executive Board. d. monitor and advise on the implementation of the approved budget of the Ghana TUC e. appoint a Board of Survey to check the fiscal cash balance and inventory of the Ghana TUC declared at the close of each financial year. c. advice on investment in accordance with the directions of the Executive Board. d. examine audited accounts of the Ghana TUC and make recommendations to the Executive Board. e. report to the Executive Board f. perform such other duties as may be assigned to it by the Executive Board. ARTICLE 18 THE SECRETARIAT There shall be established a Secretariat headed by the Secretary-General, which shall be responsible for the day to day administration of the Ghana TUC. ARTICLE 19 REGIONAL COUNCILS OF LABOUR 1. There shall be established Regional Councils of Labour throughout the country in accordance with the demarcations of regions as established by the Executive Board. Composition 1. The Regional Council of Labour shall be composed as follows: (a). Two (2) Representatives from each of the District Councils of Labour within the Region (preferably the Chairperson and the Secretary or their representatives) drawn from Executive Committee.

(b). (c). (d). (e). (f). (i). All Regional Industrial Relations Officers of the National Unions of Ghana TUC based in respective regions, as ex-officio members. All office bearers of the Regional Council of Labour. All Regional Chairpersons of National Unions resident in the Region. All Executive Board members of Ghana TUC resident in the Region One representative each of the Districts Women s Wing. The Regional Secretary of Ghana TUC as the Secretary. Duties 3. The Regional Councils of Labour shall meet at least once every year and shall have the following duties: a. review reports of activities of the District Councils of Labour b. assess the implementation of the policies and programmes of the Ghana TUC in the regions. c. advise District Councils of Labour on their operations d. perform any other duties assigned to it by the Executive Board. The Executive Committee 4. The Executive Committee of the Council shall be composed as follows: a. The five (5) elected officers of the Council (i.e. Chairperson, 1 st and 2 nd Vice-Chairpersons, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer and the Auditor) b. One (1) Representative from each of the District Councils of Labour in the Region c. All Regional Industrial Relations Officers of National Unions of Ghana TUC based in the Region, attending as Ex-officio members d. All Executive Board members of Ghana TUC in the Region. e. The Ghana TUC Regional Secretary as the Secretary of the Council. f. The Chairperson of the Regional Women s Committee in the Region. Meetings 5. The Regional Council shall meet at least once a year. The Executive Committee of the RCL shall meet at least once a quarter. Voting Rights 6. Elected Officers, Chairpersons and Secretaries of District Councils of Labour shall have voting rights Officers 7. The Officers of the Regional Councils of Labour who shall be elected every four (4) years shall be the following: (a) The Chairperson (b) The First and Second Vice-Chairperson (c) The two (2) Executive Members (d) The Assistant Secretary Qualification

8. Only persons having voting rights qualify for election as executives of the Regional Councils of Labour. Secretary 9. The Regional Secretaries of the Ghana TUC shall be the Secretaries to the Regional Councils of Labour. ARTICLE 20 DISTRICT COUNCILS OF LABOUR 1. There shall be established District Councils of Labour throughout the country in accordance with the demarcations of districts as established by the Executive Board. Composition 2. The District Councils of Labour shall consist of the following: Elected Members (a) Chairperson and Secretary of each Local/Branch of affiliated National Unions in the District. Ex-Officio Members (b) Chairpersons of District Women s Committee of Ghana TUC (c) Part-time National Officers of the affiliated National Unions ordinarily resident in the District. ARTICLE 21 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 1. There shall be an Executive Committee of the District Councils of Labour consisting of one representative from each of the affiliated National Unions operating in the District. Officers 2. The Officers of the District Councils of Labour who shall be elected every four (4) years from the Executive Committee shall be the following: (a) The Chairperson (b) The First and Second Vice-Chairpersons (c) The Secretary (d) The Assistant Secretary-Organiser (e) The Treasurer. ARTICLE 22 NATIONAL WOMEN S COMMITTEE

1. There shall be established National Women s Committee as the umbrella body of Women s Committee of Congress which shall: a. provide for women to articulate their views on issues including those of concern to women b. pursue activities that will enhance the promotion and full participation of women in the trade unions. Composition: 2. The National Women s Committee shall be composed as follows: (a) The Second Vice-Chairperson of Ghana TUC (b) Chairpersons of Women s Committees of National Unions (c) Ex-Officio members namely: (i) Head of Women Desk/National Women Organisers of Affiliated National Unions. (ii) Chairpersons of the Regional Women s Committee of Ghana TUC (iii) Second Vice-Chairpersons of Ghana TUC and Second-Vice Chairpersons of Affiliated National Unions Officers 3. Officers of the National Women s Committee shall be as follows: (a) Chairperson (b) Vice-Chairperson (c) Secretary/Head of Women Desk, Ghana TUC (d) Assistant Secretary Meetings 4. The National Women s Committee shall meet twice every year on the day preceding the Executive Board Meetings and the meetings shall be funded by Congress. ARTICLE 23 REGIONAL WOMEN S COMMITTEE 1. There shall be established throughout the country Regional Women s Committees which shall be an integral part of the Regional Councils of Labour. Officers 2. Officers of the Regional Women s Committee shall be composed of the following: (a) The Chairperson (b) The Vice-Chairperson (c) Assistant Secretary (d) The Executive Members Secretary 3. The Regional Women s Organiser of the Ghana TUC shall be the Secretary to the Regional Women s Committee. Composition 4. The Regional Women s Committee shall comprise the following:

Elected Members (a) (i) Elected Officers of the Regional Women s Committee. (ii) Chairpersons and Secretaries of the District Women s Committee in each region. Ex-Officio Members (b) Chairpersons of National Women s Committees of the affiliated National Unions and the Regional Women Organisers of the Ghana TUC. Meetings 5. The Regional Women s Committee shall meet at least once every year, on the day preceding the meeting of the Regional Council of Labour. Duties 6. The Regional Women s Committee shall have the following duties: a. review reports of Activities of the District Women s Committee particularly the involvement of women in trade union and related activities. b. review efforts aimed at promoting women and/or gender concerns generally. c. make recommendations on issues of concern particularly, those relating to women and gender in the region for the consideration of the Regional Councils of Labour. Voting Rights 7. The elected members of the Regional Women s Committees shall have voting rights. ARTICLE 24 DISTRICT WORMEN S COMMITTEE 1. There shall be established throughout the country District Women s Committees which shall be an integral part of the District Councils of Labour. Composition 2. The District Women s Committee shall be composed of the following: Elected Members (a) The Chairperson and Secretary of each Local/Branch affiliate in the District. Ex-Officio Members (b) Part-time National/Regional Women s Committee Officers of the affiliated National Unions resident in the District. Meetings 3. The District Women s Committee shall meet quarterly. Duties 4. The District Women s Committees shall have the following duties:

a. Plan and implement educational programmes and other activities that will inform and broaden the outlook of women e.g. political, social, economic and trade union issues. b. Offer support for the formation of Women s Committees at enterprise level within the District c. Identify the training needs and actively support education and skills development of women to participate effectively in their Unions and also for professional and vocational advancement. d. Create awareness that will enable women benefit from work related facilities and services and to struggle for their improvement. e. Make proposals and recommendations to the District Councils of Labour for their consideration. f. Organise social programmes that will sustain the interest of members. Voting Rights 5. Only elected members of the District Women s Committee shall have voting rights. ARTICLE 25 QUORUM There shall be deemed to be a quorum formed at any meeting of any Body established under this Constitution where not less than two thirds (2/3) of the members with voting rights are present. ARTICLE 26 AFFILIATION/ASSOCIATION 1. No workers organisation shall affiliate to the Ghana TUC as a national union unless it is registered as a Trade Union in accordance with the laws of Ghana. 2. Application for affiliation or association to the Ghana TUC shall be supported by a resolution passed by the authorised body of the union or Associate organisation. 3. Recommendation for affiliation or association by the Steering Committee shall become valid only if approved by at least two thirds (2/3) of the members of the Executive Board. 4. Any union or association, which fails to secure the recommendation of its application for affiliation or association by the Steering Committee, may appeal to the Executive Board. 5. Any union or association whose application for affiliation or association is granted shall be bound by the Constitution of the Ghana TUC 6. No union or association shall affiliate or associate with the Ghana TUC if the union or organisation is formed in contravention of the ruling or award of an arbitration set up in accordance with the Dispute Settlement provision in this Constitution. 7. No eligible workers organisation shall be denied affiliation to the Ghana TUC provided the affiliation or association meets the requirements of this Constitution and the Internal Regulations.

ARTICLE 27 WITHDRAWAL 1. No affiliated National Union of the Ghana TUC may withdraw its membership unless it satisfies the following conditions: a. pass a resolution to withdraw by an authorised body of that Union by at least two-thirds (2/3) majority of delegates in a secret ballot. b. not in arrears of dues, levies, fines etc. due to the Ghana TUC. 2. Any withdrawal by an affiliated National Union shall take effect not less than six (6) months from the date of receipt of its letter of notification to do so by the Executive Board. 3. On withdrawal by any affiliate National Union, it shall be required to do the following: a. surrender its Certificate of Affiliation to the Ghana TUC. b. vacate any Ghana TUC premises occupied by it and restored in a state and manner in which it was at the beginning of occupation c. settle all arrears of dues, levies fines etc. due and owing to the Ghana TUC. 4. No associate union/organisation shall withdraw its membership unless it satisfies the following conditions: (a) pass a resolution to withdraw by its authorised decision making body (b). is not in arrears of subscription fees (c). any withdrawal by an Associate Union/Organisation shall take effect not less than six (6) months from the date of receipt of its letter of notification to withdraw by the Executive Board ARTICLE 28 SANCTIONS The Executive Board may impose sanctions on any of the affiliated National Unions, their Officers or Officer of the Congress in accordance with the Internal Regulations. ARTICLE 29 AMENDMENTS TO CONSTITUTION 1. Any provision of this Constitution may be amended or repealed if such an amendment or repeal is provided for in the Agenda of the Congress circulated to all the affiliated National Unions together with the notice convening the Congress and provided that two-thirds (2/3) of members present and entitled to vote accept the amendment or repeal. 2. Any proposals for amendment or repeal of any Article of this Constitution shall be made only by the Affiliated National Unions and the Secretariat of the Ghana TUC. ARTICLE 30 AMENDMENTS TO INTERNAL REGULATIONS The Internal Regulations annexed to this Constitution may be amended by the Executive Board provided two-thirds (2/3) of the voting members of the Executive Board adopt such amendment. ARTICLE 31 NEUTRALITY (INDEPENDENCE) OF LEADERSHIP

1. No National Office holder of the Ghana TUC and the affiliated National Unions, Heads of the Specialised Department of the Ghana TUC, Regional Secretaries of the Ghana TUC, Women Organiser of the Ghana TUC and Industrial Relations Officers of the affiliated Trade Unions shall hold office in a political party or address any rally organized by a political party. 2. No officer or officials of Ghana TUC and affiliated National Unions occupying any analogous grades and not mentioned above shall hold office in a political party or address a rally organised by a political party. ARTICLE 32 OATH OF OFFICE Every Officer of the Ghana TUC upon taking office shall solemnly pledge and swear to live up to the aims and aspirations of the Ghana TUC and never under any circumstance divulge any official secrets of the Ghana TUC to non-members, betray a colleague, become disloyal to the Trade Union Movement or use the influence of the Congress for a selfish or personal interest and for advertisement. ARTICLE 33 DISSOLUTION The Ghana TUC may be dissolved only when all the Affiliated National Unions by resolution at a Congress specifically convened for the purpose of the dissolution of the Ghana TUC and adopt such resolution. ARTICLE 34 INTERPRETATION/DEFINITIONS In this Constitution, unless the context otherwise requires: a. Accredited Delegates are Delegates of affiliated National Unions with voting rights. b. Ad-hoc Committee is a Committee set for a special purpose only c. Audit Institution means any reputable Audit Firm or Institution selected by the Executive Board for the purpose of auditing the Accounts of the Ghana TUC. d. Congress means Quadrennial Delegates Congress or Extraordinary Congress. e. District Council of Labour comprises the various local or branches of the affiliated National Unions in a particular district of the Ghana TUC f. Ex-officio refers to any person who is a member of a structure by virtue of the position held but has no voting rights. g. Full-time Officers are Officers who are fully remunerated by the Ghana TUC consisting of the Secretary-General and the Deputy Secretary- General. h. Governing bodies shall mean Congress, Executive Board and Steering Committee. i. Incapacity shall mean unfitness, disability, incompetence or inability to perform work through injury or ill-health. j. Infirmity shall mean feebleness, weakness, frailty and unstableness of body or mind.

k. Officers of the Ghana TUC means persons elected by the Congress to serve the Ghana TUC l. Officials means Heads of Specialised Departments, Regional Secretaries of Ghana TUC and Desk Officers. m. Paid Up Membership means affiliated National Unions whose members have paid to the Ghana TUC their portions of dues due to the Ghana TUC and levies, fines and any other financial obligations to Ghana TUC up to the last financial year preceding the Congress shall be considered as paid up. n. Part-time Officers consist of the Chairperson and two (2) Vice Chairpersons of the Ghana TUC. o. Precincts shall include the Conference Hall, Halls of Residence of delegates/observers, the space around the Conference Hall and Halls of residence of delegates/observers. p. Regional Council of Labour is the composition of all District Councils of Labour of the Ghana TUC q. Solidarity Fund means a special fund set-up for the promotion of oneness of interest, aims and joint responsibility among the affiliated National Unions and the Ghana TUC. r. Specialized Departments are Departments established for the purpose of assisting in the running of the Secretariat. s. National Union means affiliated Trade Unions. t. Voluntary check-off means direct deductions made by employers from the salaries and wages of members of the affiliated National Unions and made payable to the Ghana TUC, National Unions and its Local or Branches. u. Workers Organisation shall mean the co-ordinating parts or the unified whole of workers. v. Associate Unions/Organisations is a Union/Organisation not fully affiliated to the Ghana TUC. ARTICLE 35 COMMENCEMENT The amendments made to this Constitution at 8 th Quadrennial Delegate Congress shall come into effect on 14 th day of August 2008. INTERNAL REGULATIONS

PART 1 APPORTIONMENT OF UNION DUES 1. Apportionment of union dues to the Ghana TUC shall be in accordance with Article 9 of the Constitution. 2. In the case of affiliated National Unions and their respective locals and branches, their apportionment of the dues shall be 70%. 3. Levies, fines and any other financial obligations paid by any of the affiliated National Unions or their members shall be paid into Ghana TUC accounts. PART 2 BANK ACCOUNTS AND MANDATORY SIGNATORIES 4. The Ghana TUC shall operate any account with any bank as and when it deems it necessary and shall have as authorized signatories to such accounts, the Chairperson, the 1 st and 2 nd Vice Chairperson, the Secretary-General, the Deputy Secretary-General and the Chairperson of the Finance Board. 5. There shall be three authorized signatories to any cheque that shall be issued by the Ghana TUC. 6. At any particular time, the signature of the Secretary-General and/or that of the Deputy Secretary-General together with any other one authorized signatory or two authorized signatories when necessary shall be enough for any bank to honour any cheque issued by the Ghana TUC. PART 3 APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS 7. Prior to the appointment of Auditors of the Ghana TUC, the Executive Board shall appoint an Ad hoc Committee to advise it on such appointment. 8. In compliance with the provisions of the Constitution, any audit institution to be considered for appointment shall be reputable. 9. The appointment of an Ad hoc Committee and the final decision by the Executive Board on the appointment of Auditors shall be made at the mid year and end of the year meetings respectively of the Executive Board. PART 4 COMPOSITION OF CONGRESS 10. In compliance with the provisions of the Constitution, persons entitled to attend meetings of the Congress shall include the following: a. Accredited Delegates of the affiliated National Unions and observers. b. Members of the Execution Board not elected by their National Unions as delegates or observers. c. Observers from friendly organisations. d. Guests of the Executive Board e. Members of the Secretariat of the Congress, appointed by the Steering Committee. f. Associate Unions/Organisations as Observers 11. Every affiliated National Union shall hold its Delegates Conference at least three (3) months before the Quadrennial Congress for admission to the Congress.

12. Failure by any affiliated National Union to hold its Delegates Conference at least three (3) months before Congress without justifiable cause disqualifies such Union from attending Congress. PART 5 CONVENING CONGRESS 13. The Executive Board shall fix the date for the Congress. 14. In the event of any change in such date, the Executive Board shall direct that notices of such change be given to the affiliated National Unions a month before the date of the Congress. 15. The venue of the Delegates or Extra-ordinary Congress shall be determined by the Executive Board. 16. Affiliated National Unions shall submit to the Secretary-General not later than four (4) months before the opening of the Congress proposed resolutions and amendments to the Constitution. 17. The Regional and District Councils of Labour shall submit their proposed resolutions to the Secretary-General four (4) months before the opening of the Congress. 18. The Secretary-General shall on behalf of the Executive Board prepare a draft agenda for the Congress and a report on the activities of the Ghana TUC, compile the proposed resolutions and amendments to the Constitution and shall forward them to all National Unions for their consideration not later than two (2) months before the opening of the Congress. PART 6 OFFICERS AND OFFICIALS OF CONGRESS 19. The Officers of the Congress shall be the Chairperson, the 1 st Vice-Chairperson, the 2 nd Vice-Chairperson, the Secretary General and the Deputy Secretary- General. 20. The Chairperson of Ghana TUC shall preside over the Congress. 21. In carrying out this duty, the Chairperson shall adhere to the Standing Orders of the Congress and the Constitution. 22. In the absence of the Chairperson during a sitting of any part thereof, the 1 st Vice- Chairperson shall conduct the business of the particular meeting. 23. In the absence of both the Chairperson and the 1 st Vice-Chairperson, the 2 nd Chairperson shall conduct the business of that meeting. 24. The Officials of the Congress shall be the Heads of the Specialised Departments and the Desk Officers. PART 7 SECRETARIAT OF CONGRESS 25. The members of the Secretariat of Congress shall be appointed by the Steering Committee on the recommendation of the Secretary-General. 26. The Secretary-General of the Ghana TUC shall be the Secretary of Congress. PART 8 PLENARY SESSIONS OF CONGRESS 27. Every plenary session of Congress shall be public except in cases in which it is expressly decided to the contrary by the Congress. PART 9 COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS

28. At every Congress there shall be a Credentials Committee, Standing Orders Committee, Constitution Committee, Elections Committee and Policies and Resolutions Committee. PART 10 CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE 29. The Credentials Committee shall be made up of a representative from each of the affiliated National Unions who shall be delegates. 30. The Secretary of the Credentials Committee shall be appointed by the Secretary- General with the approval of the Steering Committee. 31. Affiliated National Unions shall submit the credential of their members to the Secretary-General for transmission to the Credentials Committee. 32. The Credentials Committee shall: a. ensure that affiliated National Unions fulfil the conditions and obligations for attending Congress as laid down in Article 11 (2a) of the Constitution and Regulation 12. b. prepare lists of persons attending the Congress c. report to the Congress on the voting power of the affiliated National Unions represented. d. decide on the seating arrangements of Congress. e. consider any objections to the credentials of members. 33. In all such matters as mentioned under Regulation 32 (a-e) inclusive of this Internal Regulations, the Committee shall make appropriate recommendations to the plenary. 34. Objections raised to the sitting of any delegate shall be submitted to the Credentials Committee. 35. Pending final decision by the Congress on the admission of any member against whom objection has been raised that member shall however have full rights as a member. 36. No business of the Congress shall be conducted until the report of the Credentials Committee has been adopted. PART 11 STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE 37. The Standing Orders Committee shall be made up of a representative from each of the affiliated National Unions who shall be delegates. 38. The Secretary of the Standing Orders Committee shall be appointed by the Steering Committee. 39. The Standing Orders Committee shall: a. examine and ensure that all proposed resolutions and amendments satisfy the requirements under Regulation 16 of this Internal Regulations. b. recommend an order of business and time limits for speakers. c. consider the provisional agenda and recommend a final agenda for the approval of the Congress. d. Make proposals on the composition, the terms of reference and any other matter relating to the, setting up of a Committee or Committees not previously envisaged to resolve urgent matters that may emerge in the course of the Congress.