B.C.’s paramedics union will hold strike vote next month after impasse in talks with province

The union representing thousands of ambulance, paramedic and dispatch workers in B.C. is one step closer to job action.

The union representing B.C. paramedics and their dispatchers says its talks with the provincial government over a new contract have reached an impasse and it will be holding a strike vote early next month.

Ambulance Paramedics of B.C. will hold the vote electronically over two weeks beginning on Feb. 2, the union said in a news release Tuesday evening.

The news comes after talks last week yielded “no positive progress,” according to the union.

“Not only does the government’s offer fail to address the serious challenges we face, but it also doesn’t even live up to what other public sector workers have already been guaranteed,” said APBC president Jason Jackson, in the release.

“Our members have stepped up time and time again to ensure patients across the province get the urgent care they need, but they are being stretched to their breaking point. It’s time for the B.C. government to recognize the desperate situation we’re in, and work with us to find solutions.”

The union says provincial ambulance service is operating “under significant staffing pressures,” with long-term service gaps in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.

It’s calling for the province to “correct staffing levels” and “return stability” by working with the union to find solutions at the bargaining table.

“A strike is always a last resort, but the status quo of staffing shortages, burnout, and service disruptions isn’t an option either,” said Jackson.

“Our members take their public safety role seriously. A strike is not something they want but we are prepared to stand up for the ambulance service British Columbians deserve and the health and safety of those we serve.”

Once an essential services order is in place, APBC will be in a legal strike position, assuming members vote in favour of striking, the union said.

APBC represents more than 6,000 ambulance paramedics and emergency dispatchers in B.C.