'93% of them have been exposed to violence...that's almost unheard of' says union leader
Paramedics in Winnipeg are facing a crisis marked by alarming levels of workplace violence, chronic understaffing, and widespread burnout. A recent survey by the Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU) reveals that 93% of respondents have encountered violence on the job, while 71% have considered quitting in the past year.
“We wanted to understand what they were experiencing day-to-day,” says Kyle Ross, president of MGEU. “What we learned is that 93% of them have been exposed to violence. That’s almost unheard of in most jobs.”
Frontline paramedics describe a relentless pace, with little opportunity to recover from traumatic incidents. “The work environment is call to call. There’s no downtime,” Ross explains. “When we’re short-staffed, people don’t get time to heal… or recover from intense situations.”
A surge in violence amid mental health crises
The rise in workplace violence is part of a broader trend that has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic. Ross attributes this escalation to a surge in mental health and addiction issues, which often lead to dangerous encounters.
“When a paramedic arrives, they’re stepping into volatile situations where people are in crisis,” he says. “It’s not just a Winnipeg problem — it’s happening across the country.”
Recruitment and retention woes
Staffing shortages compound the crisis. Ross points out that fewer young people are pursuing careers in paramedicine, and recruitment efforts are insufficient. “We need a stronger push to show this is a rewarding career. Governments love to announce new ambulances, but without people to staff them, it’s just expensive equipment,” he says.
The City of Winnipeg, in a statement to CBC, acknowledges the staffing challenges but emphasizes efforts to support paramedics. “The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) has taken significant steps to improve the workplace environment for our members, including enhanced training, mental health support, and ongoing efforts to fill vacancies,” the city’s statement reads.
Struggling for solutions
Ross stresses the need for immediate action to protect paramedics. “We must find a way to make this job safer and sustainable… to prevent burnout,” he says.
MGEU continues to advocate for better working conditions, more staff, and stronger safety measures. But with violence rising and the workforce stretched thin, Winnipeg’s paramedics remain in a precarious position.
