Province To Reclassify Paramedics Next Spring

Noting how the scope of practice has evolved substantially since the 1970s, Health Minister Ted Flemming announced in the provincial legislature Tuesday that reclassification is coming next spring for provincial paramedics.

“At 9 a.m. today, the government of New Brunswick served notice to the Canadian Union of Public Employees, CUPE, of the paramedic reclassification of paramedics to medical sciences professional group effective April 1st, 2020,” Flemming said.

People’s Alliance leader Kris Austin called it a proud day for paramedics.

“I do want to thank the premier and the minister of Health. They have worked diligently. There have been many meetings over the past year,” Austin said.

Memramcook-Tantramar Green party MLA Megan Mitton said she was glad the government has properly classified paramedics.

“I believe a salary adjustment should follow this to ensure fair pay for paramedics,” Mitton said.

Ninety-eight per cent of nearly 980 New Brunswick paramedics voted in favour of reclassification more than a year ago.