B.C. paramedics reach tentative contract deal, strike action averted

The union representing more than 6,000 ambulance paramedics and emergency dispatchers across British Columbia says it has reached an agreement in principle on a new collective agreement, avoiding the possibility of job action.

The Ambulance Paramedics of BC announced the tentative deal following what it described as extensive negotiations with the Health Employers Association of BC and the provincial government. Earlier this month, 97 per cent of participating members voted in favour of strike action, placing the union in a legal strike position pending an essential services order.

Instead of moving toward labour disruption, the union says it will now begin a series of in-person and virtual meetings with members to outline the proposed terms before holding a ratification vote. Details of the tentative agreement have not yet been publicly released.

In a statement, the union said key priorities in bargaining included improvements to mental health supports, wages, benefits and training. Paramedics have repeatedly raised concerns about burnout and psychological stress associated with front-line emergency response work.

The union has also pointed to ongoing staffing shortages within the provincial ambulance service, noting that paramedics are frequently redeployed across regions to fill long-standing service gaps. Rural, remote and Indigenous communities have been identified as areas facing particular pressure. The outcome of the ratification vote will determine whether the new agreement moves forward or further negotiations are required.