Following several unsuccessful days of bargaining in which the County of Essex demanded they agree to major concessions on such major issues as sick leave, vacation scheduling, meal breaks and hours of work, the paramedics of Essex-Windsor put their new contract into the hands of Interest Arbitrator Jim Hayes.

In a ruling released on July 20, 2016, Arbitrator Hayes rejected all of the major concessions sought by the County while awarding the Paramedics strong wage increases and additional vacation days.

This arbitration decision is a major win for the medics of Essex County and allows them to maintain their historic position as a leader for paramedic working conditions in Ontario.

The full text of Arbitrator Hayes’ ruling can be found HERE.

CUPE Local 2974 was represented by our lawyers John McLuckie and Alycia Shaw.

Photo: “Ambulance” by Flickr user Ian Murphy under Creative Commons licence

“Where have all the good people gone?” wonders Canadian rock legend Sam Roberts in one of his songs. We’re pretty sure a lot of them were gathered at TD Place Saturday night for the 8th annual Rock for Public Services concert organized by CUPE Local 503. Roberts and his band were joined by Matt Mays and Amanda Rheaume and played for a full house of music-loving union members and public servants, as well as Ottawans who appreciate a free concert. As always, the concert was raising funds for charity, and this year’s chosen organization was the NWAC’s Sisters In Spirit initiative.  Attendees raised $12, 246.72!  JM&A was proud to contribute to this important cause.