The Essential Ambulance Services Act, introduced today in the House of Assembly, would ensure the continuation of essential ambulance services in the event of a strike or lockout.

If passed, the proposed legislation will require the union and the private sector employer to negotiate and put in place an essential ambulance services agreement prior to the union being able to strike or the employer being able to lock out employees.

If approved, the immediate effect of this Act would be the suspension of the current job action between the Teamsters Union and the Fewer’s Group until an essential ambulance services agreement is reached.

Teamsters Local 855 withdrew ambulance services effective noon on Friday, January 20.

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“This new Act is required at this time, as this labour dispute raises serious concerns for the health and safety of residents and the delivery of health care services in Newfoundland and Labrador. This legislation is intended to ensure that residents, particularly those in areas that are serviced by private ambulance operators, have reliable access to ambulance services. Our government is committed to ensuring a fair process exists in navigating labour disputes, and that labour legislation is responsive, relevant and timely.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister Responsible for WorkplaceNL

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Statement from Premier Furey on Reconvening the House of Assembly for Emergency Debate

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