Toronto paramedics are calling in sick and refusing to work overtime after voting against ratifying a new collective agreement last week.
The chief of Toronto 's paramedic services says the city is dealing with a 'concerning number of sick calls' and more staff refusing to work overtime after paramedics voted against ratifying a new collective agreement last week. In a Dec. 22 memo addressed to all Toronto Paramedic Services staff and obtained by CBC Toronto , chief Bikram Chawla admonished union members for their actions since Thursday, alleging the sick calls and overtime refusal began after Thursday's vote.
'Collectively calling in sick and refusing overtime, or otherwise being absent without reason, is a form of labour action, which is particularly inappropriate for paramedics due to the critical nature of our work,' Chawla said. After months of collective bargaining, the city reached a tentative four-year agreement with Toronto Civic Employees Union (TCEU) 416, which represents over 6,000 city employees, including roughly 1,400 paramedics. But on Dec. 19, paramedics, who are negotiating separately, voted not to ratify the portion of the agreement that pertained to them. Under the current collective agreement, overtime is normally assigned voluntarily, though in certain circumstances it may be mandated.TCEU 416 president Eddie Mariconda was unavailable for an interview Monday, but in a statement, said 'members are facing staff shortages and burnout — issues we have consistently highlighted'
PARAMEDICS LABOR OVERWORK TORONTO BURNOUT
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Toronto's WNBA Expansion Team May Be Named 'Toronto Tempo'Toronto's WNBA expansion team could be named the Toronto Tempo, according to a screenshot from the league's website. The team is set to start playing in 2026, and the city has been open about its branding process, involving fans in the naming journey.
Read more »
Toronto Cop Exposed to Fentanyl While Responding to Assault Call Released From HospitalA Toronto police officer who was exposed to fentanyl during a response to an assault call has been released from the hospital. The officer came into contact with the dangerous opioid while searching a suspect's pockets. After exhibiting symptoms consistent with fentanyl exposure, colleagues administered Narcan and transported the officer to the hospital.
Read more »
Porter Airlines flight makes mayday call, lands safely at Toronto PearsonA Porter Airlines flight from Ottawa to Toronto made a mayday call on Wednesday evening due to an indication, but landed safely. Emergency crews responded, and no injuries were reported. Preliminary inspections found no issues with the aircraft.
Read more »
Porter plane lands safely at Toronto Pearson airport after mayday callA Porter Airlines flight from Ottawa landed safely at Toronto Pearson airport Wednesday evening after making a mayday call.
Read more »
Porter Airlines Flight Makes Mayday Call, Lands Safely in TorontoA Porter Airlines flight from Ottawa to Toronto triggered a mayday call on Wednesday evening but managed to land safely at Toronto Pearson Airport. Passengers were unharmed and preliminary inspections show no aircraft issues.
Read more »
Black-led groups call on Toronto to adopt ombudsman's recommendations on refugee shelter accessBlack-led community groups
Read more »