Negotiations to renew collective agreements with various paramedic union groups in Quebec are set to resume soon despite initial setbacks. In August, the main paramedics’ association, associated with the CSN, saw its members reject a tentative agreement by a significant margin. However, after discussing the reasons for the rejection, they are now prepared to re-engage in negotiations promptly.
One group’s collective agreement expired over three years ago, while the Quebec Prehospital Federation, with over 2000 members, is scheduled to restart discussions with Quebec the week of Sept. 14. The Fraternity of Prehospital Workers, affiliated with the FTQ, will also resume negotiations on the same date after rejecting the employer’s offer by a large proportion.
Although some strikes are ongoing, they are relatively low-profile as most paramedic ambulance technicians’ duties are deemed essential services. The Treasury Board has affirmed that discussions are ongoing at various negotiation tables.
