Lambton EMS Forest station. (Photo by Lambton EMS)Lambton EMS Forest station. (Photo by Lambton EMS)
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Lambton EMS job action ends, dispute headed to arbitration

A work-to-rule job action by nearly 150 Lambton EMS paramedics has come to an end.

EMS Manager Steve Pancino told Blackburn News, the County of Lambton and the paramedics represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Union, have agreed to binding arbitration.

Pancino said an essential services agreement implemented October 15 only impacted low priority calls and non-emergency situations, but full service has been restored.

"While residents, for the most part, did not see any noticeable difference in service, all of our regular operations have returned to normal, so residents will see the service that they've always had, maintained," he said. "Throughout this process, Lambton County has been committed certainly to the health and well-being of its residents, and working together with the union in seeking a resolution."

Lambton EMS Manager Steve Pancino. November 7, 2018 Photo by Melanie Irwin Lambton EMS Manager Steve Pancino. November 7, 2018.

An arbitrator will now rule on outstanding issues in dispute including the bridging of benefits to age 65.

The previous contract expired March 31.

Pancino also said paramedic students that weren't able to be on site during the job action, returned on the weekend to receive part of their field preceptorship.

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