Takoradi, Oct.10-Mr. Philip Kwesi Nkrumah, Shama Ahanta East Metropolitan Chief Executive has emphasised the crucial role of labour in the operations of every vibrant institution and said this factor of production must always be recognised and rewarded adequately to enhance efficiency.

He said workers are spurred on to give of their best only when their efforts are recognised and rewarded accordingly, adding that, any institution that do not recognise hard work is not worth working for. Mr. Nkrumah was speaking at Takoradi on Monday at the best worker award ceremony of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) at which 77 workers were honoured as part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of Authority.

The weeklong celebrations, which included a float at Sekondi and Takoradi, a stakeholders' forum, photo exhibition, cocktail, lectures on port activities and a thanksgiving service on Sunday was on the theme: "20 years of port reforms; the challenges ahead".

The Metropolitan Chief Executive commended management and workers of Takoradi port for their meritorious service that had contributed to the improvement of services at the port over the years.

Mr. Nkrumah said Takoradi Ports remains a strategic partner in development of the twin city of Sekondi and Takoradi and the Metropolitan Assembly would continue to lend its support to programmes that would enhance operations at the port.

He announced that a 40-acre land had been acquired for the establishment of parking lot for articulated trucks to decongest the harbour area and some roads in the Metropolis.

Mr Charles Cyril-Nartey, Director of the Takoradi Port said management would continue to work hand-in-hand with the local union to foster cooperation and industrial harmony to enhance efficiency and commended the award winners for their commitment and dedicated service. Mr. Joseph Frempong-Manso, Senior Industrial Relations Officer, Maritime and Dock Workers Union said management of organisations should find a way to boost the morale of their workers and regard them as the most treasured assets of such institutions.

Mr. Mike Griffin, acting Director of the Ghana Railway Company, who presided called on other organisation to emulate the management of GPHA to foster good relationship between management and workers for improved productivity.

He said the tendency where managements are quick to punish wrongdoing but fail to reward hard work and innovation must change. Mr. Daniel Essoun of the Fire-Safety Department, Mr.Emmanuel Gogbelo of the Security Department and Madam Emelia Searyoh of the Medical Department were adjudged the best workers for 2003, 2004 and 2005 respectively.

They were presented with a double door refrigerator and certificate each.

All the other 74-award winners received a television set certificate each. 10 Oct. 06