WINNIPEG, MB - Following the tabling of the 2013 Preliminary Operating Budget, Mayor Sam Katz confirmed the Executive Policy Committee's commitment to hire 12 new paramedics, allowing an additional ambulance to be staffed 24/7, and 10 additional fire paramedic dispatch operators (911 operators) in 2013.
The addition of these full-time paramedics will ease some of the burden on Winnipeg's busy ambulances, which are often kept idle at city emergency rooms, waiting to off-load patients.
"Winnipeg already boasts some of the fastest response times in the country, but funding for a new ambulance crew means that we can better manage our resources in periods of high-demand," said Mayor Katz.
The addition of 10 new fire paramedic dispatch operators will enhance the City's 911 call-taking service, ensuring that all calls will continue to be answered and processed in accordance with accepted standards. The additional resources will make it possible to have more staff on duty at any given time, reducing the number of 911 calls placed on hold.
The 2013 Operating Budget includes just over $1.2 million for these full-time positions, which is cost-shared with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.
Additionally, funds have been allocated in the 2013 Preliminary Operating Budget for the purchase of new defibrillators that will be compatible with the department's STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) program, which allows for the electronic transmission of heart tracing data to the on-call doctor. This technology will ensure that patients in our community receive the best care possible when experiencing life-threatening heart attacks.
"We have proposed a $31 million increase to the Police and Fire Paramedic budget for 2013, including funds for the operation and staffing of this new ambulance. We are spending sensibly and in areas where Winnipeggers can see their dollars at work," said Deputy Mayor Russ Wyatt, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance.
"The safety and well-being of all Winnipeggers continues to be a priority," said Councillor Scott Fielding, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services. "The addition of 12 new paramedics and 10 additional 911 communications staff will allow us to respond to emergency issues faster and more effectively."