The Issue
Paramedics in the Guelph-Wellington area are critical to the healthcare system, providing life-saving services and immediate medical assistance in emergencies. Their role is essential in ensuring public safety and health, often requiring them to work long hours under extremely stressful conditions alongside Police and Fire Services. Despite the importance and demands of their work, Paramedics in this region are facing a significant pay discrepancy compared to their counterparts in other areas.
Currently, Paramedics in Guelph-Wellington earn less than their neighbouring services for the same role, and significantly less than their allied agencies, despite the increasing cost of living and growing responsibilities. This inequity not only undermines the value of their work but also affects their quality of life and job satisfaction. It makes it challenging to recruit and retain skilled professionals, ultimately impacting the level of healthcare service available to the community.
To address these issues, we call upon local government officials, councilors, and GWPS management to review and adjust the compensation structure for Paramedics in Guelph-Wellington. The goal is to align their salaries and compensations with the increasing provincial standards, recognizing their dedication and the vital service they provide. Implementing pay parity will demonstrate respect for their profession and uphold the principle of fair compensation for frontline workers.
Joining this petition means you support equity for Paramedics in Guelph-Wellington, who deserve recognition and fair compensation for their indispensable service. By signing this petition, you contribute to strengthening our healthcare system and supporting those who dedicate their lives to saving others. Sign now to champion pay parity and support our frontline workers.
Sign this petition
E-Action: Send a message to Guelph City Council
Q: What are the Paramedics asking for from the city?
A: Competitive wages with surrounding Paramedic Services, with a goal of pay parity and recognition in line with our allied emergency services in Guelph Police, OPP, and Guelph Fire.
Q: What do Paramedics mean by recognition?
A: Recognition as an emergency service in line with Police and Fire services. Experience-recognition pay is a move in this direction that can help to retain highly skilled and compassionate Paramedics, and reduce the current 40% attrition rate.
Q: Who else receives Recognition pay in the city of Guelph?
A: Aside from Guelph Police Officers and Guelph Firefighters, recognition pay is also given to civilian workers within their services. This includes Custodians, Administrative Assistants, Financial Analysts, etc. Yet Paramedics are still not being considered for this same benefit.
Core Proposals:
- 18% over 2 years (2026-2027) to catch up to other first responders
- Retention pay equal to other first responders. (3-6-9 increases based on years of service)
Potential Impacts
- Increased ambulance response times as Paramedics are leaving for higher paying paramedic services. Guelph-Wellington cannot attract new paramedics to fill shifts.
- Increased cost of overtime due to Paramedic burnout and inability to staff shifts.
- Loss of experienced Paramedics as they leave for other services and positions that offer increased compensation and retention pay.
Contacts:
Please reach out to:
Allan Rogers (OPSEU Staff Rep): (519) 671-7319 [email protected]