The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1 Canada says part time paramedics deserve equal status.
SEIU has an excellent track record in helping part-time paramedics gain better hours, wages and benefits across Ontario. That’s why many part-time paramedics in Essex County will be supporting SEIU in the upcoming paramedic vote on November 18 and 19 to join a new union.
“SEIU really sticks up for part-time paramedics”, said Ian Nash, Chair of the SEIU Provincial Paramedics Committee. “They receive better hours, higher wages and better benefits. They win by choosing SEIU.”
Many other part-time paramedics throughout the county feel the same way. Shawn Arrand, a paramedic who works in Windsor, believes part-time paramedics who are members of SEIU can work more hours in a month than members of other unions.
SEIU’s part time paramedics also earn seniority at the same rate as their full time counterparts. They are treated equally whether they are full or part time.
Part-timers are also given $400 tax-free stipend to pay for boots and other costs of doing their job. “This additional money helps pay for CPR certification, dry cleaning our uniforms, and a medical exam to renew our Class F driver’s license,” said Trish Fischer, a paramedic who works for Sun Parlour Ambulance.
“They also receive in lieu benefits for vacation time,” added Mark Ward, a paramedic who supports SEIU. “They may not get vacation time but at least they get vacation pay.”
This vote was triggered by Essex County’s decision to amalgamate its four emergency services into one single service. Paramedics were originally represented by three different unions. Now that the region’s EMS services have been brought together, there can only be one union can representing the county’s paramedics. The vote takes place on November 18 and 19 and they can choose between SEIU, CUPE and OPSEU.
The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1 Canada represents more than 46,000 health care and community services workers in Ontario. The Local has a track record of improving wages, benefits and working conditions for our members, as well as strengthening standards in patient and client care.
Its members work in hospitals, home care, nursing and retirement homes and community services throughout the province. SEIU Local 1 Canada’s mission is to improve the lives of working people and their families and lead the way to a more just and humane society. For more information, please visit our website at www.seiulocal1.org.