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, whohave been on strike since April 1, are seeking improvedstaffing levels, wage parity with other emergency response workers and a multi-year contract.