Don’t dismantle a world-class legacy: Protect Lethbridge’s integrated EM
By Lethbridge Herald on March 24, 2026.
Editor:
The provincial government’s recent move to overhaul ambulance contracts through a new RFP process should sound an alarm for every resident of Lethbridge. While the province claims this is about ”efficiency,” we risk losing a system that is not only a part of our heritage but a global leader in life-saving care.
Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) holds a distinction few cities can claim: it is the oldest integrated service in North America and the second oldest in the world, surpassed only by Dublin, Ireland. For over a century, our firefighters and paramedics have worked as one seamless unit. This isn’t just a ”nice-to-have” historical fact; it is a proven model that ensures when you call 911, the person who arrives is equipped to handle anything.
Furthermore, our local service is currently setting the gold standard with its Cardiac Survivability Program. By using data-driven technology and high-performance CPR protocols, LFES has achieved results that are being recognized across the industry. Transitioning to a ”cheaper” third-party contract threatens to dismantle this specialized expertise in favor of the lowest bidder.
We have already seen the frustrations caused by centralized dispatch. We cannot afford to let the province gamble with the actual boots on the ground. Our integrated model isn’t just a point of pride—it’s a lifesaver. I urge our local MLAs and City Council to stand firm against any provincial plan that would trade our world-class service for a cut-rate alternative.
Sincerely,
Your Lethbridge Firefighters
8-7
So we have the usual, union/government better than private “cheaper”. Is there any evidence from anywhere else that can be compared to the current service. Is there any word on whether a private service will be required to have an advanced care paramedic assigned to each unit?? Let the horror stories begin.