A number of local health centres will be the beneficiaries of new front-line paramedics that will be hired to replace stand-by positions.

The province announced Thursday that it would hiring 30 paramedics to work in the Prairie Mountain Health and Southern Health-Santé Sud Regional Health Authorities.

“Paramedics are often the first to care for critically injured patients and it’s important to invest in more front-line positions to ensure care is available as soon as possible,” said Premier Greg Selinger. “These positions will create more jobs for paramedics and help to reduce response times in western and southern Manitoba.”

Full-time paramedics will be hired in several communities including Melita, Deloraine, and MacGregor.

“The investment in new paramedic positions for priority areas in Prairie Mountain Health will contribute to a more sustainable, responsive emergency medical services system,” said Penny Gilson, chief executive officer, Prairie Mountain Health.  “Moving more stations toward the goal of around-the-clock in-station coverage instead of relying heavily on standby paramedics will support staff and ensure more consistent services for area residents.”

This initiative is part of the government’s 10-year plan to implement the recommendations of the Manitoba EMS System Review, which was conducted in 2013.