Tuesday, June 26, 2007

** HSAS paramedics in Saskatchewan prepare to strike

** Female Florida paramedic charged for beating boyfriend

CANADA NEWS

** Paramedics with the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan (HSAS) could be on strike by Thursday. That is the word from the CBC (June 25) which said a 48-hour strike notice was issued yesterday. Union president Chris Driol said concilation talks on Wednesday and Thursday could still stave off the walk out. The 2,700 HSAS members have been without a contract since March 31. Wages is the main point of contention. While the government offered 12 per cent over three years, the union was seeking a 22 per cent salary increase over just two. Along with paramedics, HSAS also represents public health inspectors, social workers, pharmacists, and respiratory therapists.

UNITED STATES NEWS

** A female New Port Richey, Florida paramedic has been arrested for beating up her boyfriend. The St. Petersburg Times (June 23) said Hillsborough County Fire Rescue worker Dawn Richelle Mewborn, 33, was taken into custody Friday. Mewborn allegedly repeatedly punched her partner, at one point kicking him in the head when he plunged to the ground. Occurring around 10:00 p.m., the assault played out in public with some of the blows being levelled at the Bourbon Street Night Club and a Taco Bell restaurant. Police told the newspaper the male victim declined to physically defend himself.