First responders threaten job action

Ambulance workers say wage negotiations have broken down with private operator

Paramedics, emergency medical responders and dispatchers employed with the largest private employer providing ambulance services in Newfoundland and Labrador are set to take a vote on targeted job action, the Teamsters Local Union 855 announced Wednesday.

The union said a breakdown in negotiations with the Fewer Group of Ambulance Services has left its members with no choice but to take the vote.

“Wages are a priority for these employees,” the union said in a news release. “They make considerably less than similar employees in this province.”

It said employees have not seen a pay increase since 2014, when they unionized and received a two per cent raise. It said the employer is now trying to claw that back in these negotiations.

The employees are also seeking retroactive payments similar to those the employer received in the new Ambulance Service Agreement, as well as overtime.

“Employees are also seeking a retirement package, so they can retire with dignity after a lifetime of service to the people of our province.”

Union representative Hubert Dawe said emergency ambulance services will not be affected by any job action taken.

“Our proposal for job action would see no interruption to emergency ambulances or transports necessary for medical intervention, diagnostic imaging, etc.,” he said. “However, when we look at transfers between medical facilities or other destinations, there will be a decrease in ambulances available.”

The operators that would be affected are:

• 13910 Newfoundland and Labrador Ltd. (Conception Bay South and Holyrood);

• Ferryland Emergency Services Ltd.;

• Fewer’s Ambulance Services Ltd. (Arnold’s Cove, Bonavista/catalina, Clarenville, Lethbridge, Port Rexton and Terrenceville);

• Gambo Ambulance Service Ltd.;

• Mercer’s Ambulance Service Ltd. (Boyd’s Cove, Carmanville and Fogo Island);

• Ryan’s Ambulance Service (Trepassey); and

• Tremblett’s Ambulance Service (Bell Island).

Business owner Bob Fewer was not available for comment Wednesday.