Hastings-Quinte Paramedics (CUPE Local 1842) are holding a peaceful demonstration and information picket outside the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Belleville this morning.
The event, scheduled for 8 a.m., coincides with what is expected to be the final bargaining meeting with Hastings County before arbitration begins this summer.
Paramedics have been without a contract since December 2023.
According to a news release issued this morning, the demonstration aims to raise awareness within the communities served by the paramedics—Hastings County, Prince Edward County, and Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.
“We are proud to provide essential emergency medical services, but we are struggling under the weight of a broken system,” the union stated. “Paramedics deserve a fair contract—one that reflects the critical nature of our work, the increasing demands placed on us, and the importance of maintaining a strong and sustainable workforce.”
According to CUPE Local 1842, Hastings County paramedics are currently the busiest paramedic service in eastern Ontario, yet they remain the second lowest paid.
“This disparity makes it extremely difficult to recruit and retain staff. Paramedics can travel just 20 minutes from here and find a service with a lower call volume and significantly higher wages. As a result, our service is not an attractive employer—and our current staff are paying the price.”
Officials also noted that, due to ongoing staffing shortages, paramedics with over 25 years of service are being denied vacation requests.
“After decades of dedicated service, it’s unacceptable that members are being told they can’t take their earned time off because the system can’t staff accordingly. This is not sustainable.”
Mental health support is another critical issue, the union added. They are calling for proper access to trauma-informed mental health services for all paramedics, regardless of employment status.
Currently, only full-time paramedics receive any mental health benefits—and that coverage is capped at $500 per year. Part-time employees receive no mental health coverage at all.
“In a profession built on exposure to trauma, this is simply not enough. Most therapists charge between $150 and $200 per session, meaning that coverage can be exhausted in just a few visits.”
The union emphasized its commitment to serving local communities and said paramedics need a contract that supports their ability to continue doing so.
