Wednesday, December 15, 2010

** New Brunswick paramedic association preparing to test/licence ACPs

** Alberta to erect monument to EMS and other LODDs

CANADA NEWS

** New Brunswick’s advanced care paramedics will be able to be tested and licenced by their professional body likely by February. That is the word from the Daily Gleaner (Adam Bowie/December 14) which said the Paramedic Association of New Brunswick (PANB) is currently doing a logistical study to determine where ACPs would serve the province best. The approach follows an October amendment to PANB bylaws accommodating ACP considerations. It also comes after the Health Minister approved the changes via letter some two weeks ago.

** The union representing Alberta paramedics has contributed money to build a memorial to honor the life of medic John O’Mahony, killed last week in an ambulance accident in McLennan. The Canadian Press (December 13) said the Health Sciences Association of Alberta has kicked in $10,000 for the cause which will also pay tribute to others killed or injured in the line of duty. The effort, which is the brainchild of the Edmonton and District Labour Council, will likely be completed in 2012. O’Mahony had worked EMS for some two and a half decades while toiling also as a math teacher. He was 65.