Quote:
Originally Posted by urban1
If youre an EMT or paramedic and you dont like it or cant take the stress, then quit. Even in a market like this where recruiting may be tough, someone will come along and take your job. <snip>
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This isn't about the stress. Paramedics can deal with it fine, that's why they still have a job. They aren't arguing that the stress of the job should equate to a raise. No where has that ever been mention from their union and if they used that as leverage, every damn emergency service would be using it. As jiri pointed out, as much as it would be nice to pay people who contribute most to society it isn't feasible.
Is EMS really "taking the city hostage"? They're not an essential service and are allowed to strike as every other union is. Blame the provincial government if you're upset for that. They're simply practicing and using their options and I don't think you can fault any union for doing that. Obviously you're not a fan of unions but you recognize the concept of supply and demand. The city is desperately in need for paramedics...having a chronic shortage of medics in this city will only compound itself and get worse and worse if there isn't some sort of action done against it. Not to say that a wage increase would be the only thing that needs to be done...but that is a huge draw for new recruits and especially out of towners...who wants to live in Calgary when you're making 50 grand when you can goto a small town and make the same.
I think the union is asking for a reasonable amount given recent union contracts in the city (transit, IBEW, etc.) and deserve to be paid accordingly. Do you really think a transit operator with five years experience should make more than someone who is risking their life to save yours? They aren't asking for anything outlandish (atleast anymore).