The County of Essex has officially approved a new three-year collective agreement with the union representing more than 350 Essex-Windsor EMS paramedics and support staff. The agreement, finalized last week between the county and CUPE Local 2974, includes several key provisions. One notable aspect is the implementation of four wage increases over the next three years, with the initial increase of 6.64% retroactively effective from April 1, 2026.
Subsequently, paramedics and support staff will see the following wage hikes: 6.25% effective April 1, 2027; 3.13% effective April 1, 2028; and 3.94% effective October 1, 2028. Additionally, the new deal introduces enhanced mental-health benefits for eligible employees and their dependents, alongside new occupational psychological health and support measures following critical incidents.
James Jovanovic, the president of CUPE Local 2974, emphasized the significance of the mental health provisions in reaching the agreement, stating that they were crucial for better supporting paramedics and staff facing various stresses in their profession.
Essex County Warden Hilda MacDonald acknowledged the challenging circumstances encountered daily by paramedics and EMS support staff, emphasizing the significance of the new agreement. The collective agreement, set to remain in effect until March 31, 2029, aims to address the needs of the workforce and enhance their overall well-being.
Initially, there were concerns about a potential strike, with Jovanovic mentioning the looming possibility before the tentative deal was reached. He highlighted the importance of the impending strike deadline in motivating both sides to come to a resolution swiftly. The successful negotiation of the new collective agreement signifies a collaborative effort between CUPE Local 2974 and the County of Essex, ensuring stability and support for the EMS workforce in the coming years.