A decision in the arbitration case between the City of Winnipeg and the MGEU regarding wages and benefits for Winnipeg Paramedics was handed down yesterday by Arbitrator Arne Peltz.
“This has been a long process,” said MGEU president Michelle Gawronsky, ”We’re pleased the paramedics can put this behind them, and I know they’re looking forward now to continuing the important work of providing timely pre-hospital care to Winnipeggers.”
The decision awards retroactive wage increases of 4.5% for 2011 and 4.5% for 2012, and a further 3.75% for 2013.
“The award is seen as positive by paramedics.” said Chris Broughton, president of Paramedics of Winnipeg, MGEU Local 911. “We feel it recognizes the difficult work that we do each and every day on behalf of Winnipeggers.”
Arbitration was requested in this case after the City and MGEU failed to reach an agreement through collective bargaining. Paramedics are unable to undertake strike action under The Firefighters and Paramedics Arbitration Act.
The new collective agreement will expire in February 2014.