Talks may resume in B.C. ambulance strike

Health Minister George Abbott has responded to calls for a return to the bargaining table with a mediator, a spokesman for striking B.C. ambulance paramedics says.

John Strohmaier, president of CUPE Local 873, said Abbott contacted him and suggested a possible meeting with ministry representatives to discuss the situation.

"Well, there's certainly room for some cautious optimism," Strohmaier said. "I had a conversation with the health minister and he indicated there may be a sense that we could get negotiations back underway with the assistance of a third party."

Abbott's last suggestion was for a 90-day extension on contract talks and the appointment of a "fact-finder," but the paramedics want an independent third-party mediator to settle the dispute.

The 3,500 CUPE 873 members, who have been on strike since April 1, are seeking improved staffing levels, wage parity with other emergency response workers and a multi-year contract.