The union representing Essex-Windsor paramedics has set a strike deadline of 12 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026.
The union filed a no-board report with the Ontario Labour Relations Board in July, which could have triggered a strike as early as August 8.
"The Union could have chosen an earlier strike date. We deliberately did not. Nor were we required to announce it this far in advance," said CUPE Local 2974 President James Jovanovic in a statement. "We gave our community nearly two months’ notice so that those responsible for resolving this dispute, and the public who would bear its consequences, know precisely what is at stake and have meaningful time to act. These weeks must not be lost to inaction. They must be used to confront the problems facing the service and reach an agreement."
Under the essential-services ruling issued by the Ontario Labour Relations Board, a strike would result in a 20 per cent reduction in services in the region.
"These negotiations are about the future stability of Essex-Windsor EMS. No single proposal or figure tells the whole story. A lasting agreement requires meaningful solutions to the recruitment and retention crisis, along with seriousness, consistency and a genuine commitment to resolution at the bargaining table," said Jovanovic.
The union met with the County of Essex last week for a round of negotiations.
"Recent actions by the County, at and away from the bargaining table, have moved the parties further from agreement," said Jovanovic.
Essex-Windsor EMS continues to operate normally at this time.
