Statement: Essex paramedic representation vote result

WINDSOR, Nov. 19 – In a union representation vote affecting 219 Paramedics in Windsor-Essex, CUPE won the support of a majority of voters.

“We fought a hard fight and ran a great campaign, we just fell a bit short,” said Bill Hulme, SEIU’s Essex paramedic campaign leader.

“I want to give my heartfelt thanks to all the members and staff of Local 1 who all gave their heart and soul for Essex’s paramedics,” Ian Nash, Chief Steward and Chair of SEIU’s Provincial Paramedic Committee.

“I will not deny that I am very saddened by the loss of our members,” said Sharleen Stewart, President of SEIU Local 1 Canada. “It also means we will lose some amazing leaders; CUPE will be enriched by acquiring such dynamic and dedicated trade unionists.”

Hulme said SEIU’s Essex committee did outstanding work, led by Ian Nash, who campaigned everyday for months. Shawn Arrand, Mark Ward, Angela Volpatti, Kevin Cornwall, Trisha Fischer, Rick Johnson, Renee Mitchell, Diane Clark and Ed Scherer were all outstanding, Hulme said.

“It is hard to believe that we lost after so much effort. I am so proud of that effort, and stunned by the results,” said Hulme.