May 2019 Member Newsletter
President’s Update “April was also a very busy month with media coverage. On the heels of unprecedented out of service levels across the province, we distributed a press release to highlight the situation. With your help, we were able to provide actual examples of communities across the province who are suffering significant staffing shortages. I provided over twenty-five media interviews, across all platforms.”
Labour Relations Update “On April 1, 2019 the union and employer met with Arbitrator Saunders to mediate two long outstanding EMD/EMCT policy grievances file going back to 2008. The parties have reached a settlement including acknowledging there is no “EMD or EMCT Training rate of pay” and included a six-figure monetary resolve to be distributed to members affected by the grievances.“
PAC National Lobby Days “Over the day, forty (40) paramedics meet with over eighty (80) parliamentarians to discuss issues around the ongoing opioid crisis, the expansion of community paramedic services, support for mental health and wellness for paramedics and finally, support for a National Fallen Paramedics Monument.”
Ceremonial Unit Update “Organizations and agencies succeed because of the people that make up the organization. Are you interested in being a part of the Ambulance Paramedics of BC/Emergency Dispatchers of BC Ceremonial Unit/Honour Guard? We could use your talent, drive, and energy. We will be putting an expression of interest out for new members in targeted areas of the province. Please watch for it on your union email accounts.”
Public Education Update “Happy Spring everyone! Thanks to everyone who stepped up for the elections in the Regional Public Education Director positions. We have ALL but one spot filled. “