20 per cent EMS reduction: Here’s what it could mean if Essex-Windsor paramedics go on strike

Essex County is getting ready for a possible ambulance strike after a key labour ruling.

According to CUPE Local 2974, the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) has proposed a service reduction just in case the two sides can’t reach an agreement.

Called an Essential Ambulance Services Agreement (EASA), the agreement allows Essex-Windsor Emergency Medical Services (EWEMS) to reduce their service by 20 per cent, according to CUPE Local 2974 President James Jovanovic.

“No paramedic wants this outcome,” Jovanovic posted on social media.

He told CTV News the service wouldn’t be reduced entirely by frontline staff.

Rather, he believes it would be a “combination” of actions including putting the Community Paramedicine unit on hiatus, cutting one first-response SUV, and reducing the number of staff who work in logistics.

EWEMS Chief Justin Lammers deferred all questions to communications with the County of Essex, who is the employer in these negotiations.

Officials with the county would not provide specific comment on how the service reduction would be achieved, other than to say it “permits a lower level of ambulance service than the County sought.”

The EASA would only be put into practice if the two sides cannot negotiate a new collective agreement.

According to Jovanovic, the next date for bargaining is set for Aug. 5, but the county would not confirm the date.

If they cannot negotiate a new deal, Jovanovic says the union will file a “no board report”.

After its accepted by the OLRB, the clock begins, counting down 17 days to a potential strike by staff with Essex-Windsor EMS.