Recently, IAEP Local R7-708 ratified their first successor agreement. The local, which contains 25 hardworking paramedics who serve the city of Cicero, Illinois, is employed by Metro Paramedic Services. The lengthy negotiation process was a complicated one and required the assistance of federal mediation. But, Local R7-708’s members, contract negotiations team, IAEP Chief Negotiator Richard Anderson and National Representative Ken Skaggs worked hard to reach an agreement between the first responders and management. 
 

After difficult negotiations and two tentative agreements, the group of paramedics illustrated the importance of a healthy workplace contract to management when almost half the staff sought jobs elsewhere. In the end, the union members demonstrated their worth through solidarity. The first responders were offered retention and referral bonuses by management, scheduled pay increases over the next three years, and increased rate of pay for mandated overtime or extra shifts. “Overall this was a success for Local R7-708 membership,” said IAEP National Representative Ken Skaggs. 
 

Congratulations to the paramedics of Local R7-708 on their new agreement, we look forward to continuing work with you to raise the standard for EMS in Cicero!