NLIS 9
September 29, 2003
(Health and Community Services)

 

Minister signs Ambulance Service Agreement

Gerald Smith, Minister of Health and Community Services, today signed an agreement with the Newfoundland and Labrador Ambulance Operators Association.

"I am pleased we were able to reach an agreement with the third and final group of private ambulance operators," said Minister Smith. "My officials met with the majority of the membership this past weekend and we have now reached an agreement with all parties."

The agreement is retroactive to April 1, 2003 and is for one year.

The agreement with the Newfoundland and Labrador Ambulance Operators Association will result in an increase of $2.6 million on a per annum basis and includes:

  • An average salary for paramedics of $13.00 per hour, with this increase being retroactive to April 1, 2003. Funding will also be provided to increase wages for other staff.
  • New funding will be made available to enable the ambulance services to hire additional staff, as well as to assist the services with recruitment and retention of employees. This funding will help to improve lifestyle and work hours for existing staff.
  • An increase in the amount allocated for non-salary operating costs.

Wade Smith, a member of the Board of Directors for the Newfoundland and Labrador Ambulance Operators Association, joined the minister in the signing and indicated his members are pleased with the agreement reached today. "We feel this agreement will contribute greatly to ambulance operators� abilities to provide quality ambulance services in Newfoundland and Labrador."

"Our ultimate goal is always to ensure quality services and programs are in place and maintained to protect and enhance the health and well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians," said Minister Smith. "We look forward to working with all ambulance associations in the future to improve upon our quality services in this sector."

Photo #1: Health and Community Services Gerald Smith and Wade Smith, a member of the Board of Directors for the Newfoundland and Labrador Ambulance Operators Association sign an ambulance service agreement.

Media contact: Diane Keough, Communications, (709) 729-1377

2003 09 29                                      4:50 p.m.


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