Urgences-santé paramedics vote for strike mandate

Urgences-santé paramedics have just voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike mandate, with 99.6 per cent support.

The paramedics are members of a union within the Fédération de la santé et des services sociaux (FSSS), affiliated with the CSN.

Any potential strike by paramedics is subject to the provisions on the maintenance of essential services, and given the nature of their activities, these essential services are very extensive. Patient transportation is provided, as is transportation between health-care facilities.

In the past, pressure tactics have mainly targeted administrative staff, such as requiring forms to be completed, changes to the uniform worn, or stickers affixed to vehicles. In any case, the Administrative Labour Tribunal must decide whether the proposed essential services are sufficient to ensure the health and safety of the public.

Other unions in the same federation representing paramedics are also voting on a strike mandate. The results of the votes will be known later this week.

The main points of contention are wages, compliance with work schedules in relation to overtime, and the pension plan, according to the union.

For its part, Urgences-santé management affirmed that it continues to negotiate with the union. “Negotiations are progressing,” it stated Tuesday.

It reassured the public that essential services would be maintained at all times, should a strike be called.

–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews