Niagara paramedics say they have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from residents across the region after launching a video series that gave the public an intimate look at the emotional toll of working on the front lines of emergency care.
The videos, a part of a larger public campaign launched by CUPE 911 as they continue to bargain for a new collective agreement, feature paramedics speaking candidly about the trauma, stress, moral exhaustion, and mental health impacts they experience responding to emergency calls every day with dwindling resources. Since the videos launched, they have been viewed hundreds of thousands of times across social media platforms.
“Paramedics are known to have our guard up. It’s a coping mechanism for all the trauma we experience. But every member has been moved by the response we’ve heard from neighbours, strangers, and even elected officials,” said Dave Barnett, president of CUPE 911 and a paramedic with 17 years of experience. “We know people would care. The stories, frankly, are shocking. But we didn’t expect this level of response.”
More than 1,700 residents have signed a petition calling on Niagara Region to address paramedic staffing, wages, and mental health supports. Paramedics have been approached by patients or passers-by while on call to voice their support. And several elected officials have personally reached out to express support and concern about conditions in the service.
The one group that appears unmoved by this public support is Niagara EMS management. Despite growing concern from residents, patients, and elected officials, the employer continues to stall at the bargaining table and has yet to meaningfully address members’ concerns around wages and mental health supports.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the service and the workforce, CUPE 911 is focused on two urgent issues:
- Wages: Niagara paramedics earn between 15-24 per cent less than police and firefighters in the region, and between $5-8 less per hour than paramedics in Durham and Peel.
- Mental Health: Niagara paramedics receive just $3,000/year in mental health benefits, compared to $20,000/year for Niagara police.
“This disparity sends the wrong message to workers who show up for people on the worst days of their lives, regularly dealing with death, overdoses, violence, and trauma,” said Barnett. “The public has heard directly from us now. They understand what this work does to paramedics and why so many are struggling. The support we’ve received has been incredibly meaningful, but support alone won’t solve this crisis. Niagara Region needs to come to the table prepared to invest in the people who keep this community safe.”
CUPE 911 represents roughly 470 paramedics and dispatchers. There are no scheduled bargaining dates.
