The Province has introduced legislation to end the strike by the BC Ambulance Service which began on April 1, 2009. Despite an essential services order, the Minister of Health Services reported BCAS has experienced unpredictable staffing shortages which have impacted service delivery. Citing the impact of H1N1 and the approach of the holiday season, the Minister said the public needs certainty that health care needs will be met during an emergency.
In introducing the Ambulance Service Collective Agreement Act (Bill 21), the Minister stated that the terms of settlement outlined in the legislation are reflective of the most recent offer made to the union. The Bill provides for a one year deal retroactive to April 1, 2009 and includes a three percent compensation increase.