Ambulance Paramedics Ratify Agreement

VANCOUVER, Dec. 21, 2012 /CNW/ - Members of the Ambulance Paramedics of British Columbia (APBC), CUPE Local 873, have ratified the collective agreement reached with the Health Employer's Association of BC (HEABC) last month.  APBC's agreement is part of, but separate from, the agreement that was also ratified by members of the Facilities Bargaining Association (FBA).

91% of members voted in favour of the new two year agreement which will expire March 31, 2014.  Contract language concerning paramedics and dispatchers will continue to be appended to the main FBA agreement and also includes a general wage increase of 3% over the life of the agreement.

"On behalf of all APBC members, I would like to thank the negotiating team for the hard work, dedication and commitment they have demonstrated throughout the process," said Bronwyn Barter, President of APBC. "This contract recognizes the unique role paramedics play in providing front line emergency care to British Columbian's."

"We have been at the bargaining table since last February. We have worked very hard with our colleagues in the FBA to negotiate an agreement," added Barter. "We believe this is a positive step for our members and we remain committed to being recognized as a sixth, and separate, health bargaining unit."

SOURCE: Ambulance Paramedics of British Columbia

Media Contact:
Cameron Eby
Provincial Recording Secretary
604-815-7689