Calgary Paramedics vote 99% in favour of strike action

"A decisive and united decision" - Local President Bruce Robb

CALGARY– Calgary Paramedics have voted 99% in favour of strike action.

Of the 81% of eligible voters, only 4 members cast “no” votes. 358 of 440 members cast ballots.

CUPE Local 3421 President Bruce Robb says the decisive result was surprising even to the Executive.

“We know members were increasingly frustrated with wage levels and chronic short staffing,” says Robb.

“It is clear that Calgary Paramedics are speaking with one voice: wage fairness is a priority. Our members are solidly behind the wage proposals the union is seeking at the bargaining table,” adds Robb.

Paramedics earn lower hourly wages than other City of Calgary employees.

Paramedics last received a wage increase in 2005. The basic salary for a Paramedic with 4 years experience is $60,000/year.

A paramedic with 3 ½ years of education earns $27.30/hour after 4 years of service.

By comparison, a city employee who provides protective services for Calgary Transit earns $33.44 after 4 years.

 “Other city employees are being paid fairly, and we support that. But hour for hour, paramedics’ wages are not keeping pace. And in this economy, that means short staffing for emergency services,” continues Robb.

Robb says that the Local will now weigh their options at a meeting on Friday.

“The strong mandate means the Local is now preparing to determine when we serve strike notice,” concludes Robb.