Lambton EMS Forest station. (Photo by Lambton EMS)Lambton EMS Forest station. (Photo by Lambton EMS)
Sarnia

Lambton EMS job action ends, dispute headed to arbitration

A work-to-rule job action by nearly 150 Lambton EMS paramedics has come to an end.

EMS Manager Steve Pancino told Blackburn News, the County of Lambton and the paramedics represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Union, have agreed to binding arbitration.

Pancino said an essential services agreement implemented October 15 only impacted low priority calls and non-emergency situations, but full service has been restored.

"While residents, for the most part, did not see any noticeable difference in service, all of our regular operations have returned to normal, so residents will see the service that they've always had, maintained," he said. "Throughout this process, Lambton County has been committed certainly to the health and well-being of its residents, and working together with the union in seeking a resolution."

Lambton EMS Manager Steve Pancino. November 7, 2018 Photo by Melanie Irwin Lambton EMS Manager Steve Pancino. November 7, 2018.

An arbitrator will now rule on outstanding issues in dispute including the bridging of benefits to age 65.

The previous contract expired March 31.

Pancino also said paramedic students that weren't able to be on site during the job action, returned on the weekend to receive part of their field preceptorship.

Read More Local Stories

New military crosswalk rendering. (Image courtesy of the Sarnia Legion Branch 62)

New military crosswalk in Sarnia to be unveiled

As part of a partnership between the Sarnia Legion Branch 62 and City of Sarnia, an unveiling ceremony will be held at the corner of Christina Street and Wellington Street on Sunday, June 7, at 2 p.m.

Members of the Sarnia Police Service entering a Tashmoo Avenue residence on June 4, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Sarnia Police Service)

Two men arrested in Tashmoo Ave. standoff

Sarnia police said the investigation began on May 29 after the victim was allegedly attacked by acquaintances at a residence near Tashmoo Avenue and Christopher Drive at Aamjiwnaang First Nation.