May 28, 2026
Dear Ornge Air AMEs:
The results of the representation election between OPEIU and AMFA were released today, and your remarkable participation resulted in a 98.5% vote for AMFA. We are honored by your trust and unity as a skilled trade group at Ornge—your decision to select AMFA as your trade union underscores the collective desire to elevate your profession. While we are still awaiting the CIRB’s official certification letter, we fully expect the Board’s certification of AMFA as your bargaining representative in the coming days and have already begun coordinating a smooth transition once the official decision is issued.
Your grassroots efforts have led to a notable achievement—positioning your group as the first AMFA-represented air ambulance bargaining unit. The dedication demonstrated by your Organizing Committee has been invaluable throughout this certification process.
Pending the official certification letter from the CIRB, a volunteer transition team is already in place, including an Interim AMFA-Ornge Airline Representative (ALR), Nathan Lapierre, who will serve as your primary point of contact. The ALR oversees the enforcement of current work rules, pay, retirement, and benefits. The Interim Area Representative(s) and Interim Shop Representative(s) assist the ALR and support communication and operational matters on the floor.
During this transition, we trust Ornge Air management will uphold their legal obligations and refrain from making unilateral changes to your working conditions without engaging in collective bargaining with AMFA. Should any issues arise, we encourage you to remain professional, continue fulfilling your responsibilities, and promptly inform an AMFA representative of any concerns. A meeting will be scheduled with Ornge Air management to ensure a smooth transition process.
There will be many important developments for your group in the coming weeks. You will receive a Digital New Member Package, including an Application for Membership. In the meantime, we encourage you to register on the AMFA National Website to ensure you receive the latest information regarding the transition process. AMFA Local 605 will be conducting elections for the AMFA-Ornge ALR and other union positions as your group begins the collective bargaining process under AMFA, including contract amendment proposals aimed at enhancing your working standards and securing greater recognition of your skills in the workplace.
Once the official certification decision is received, you will move forward with confidence knowing that you hold the reins to shape your future as one unified craft/trade group. Together, we will work to improve your working conditions, enhance workplace culture, and ensure your contributions are recognized.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your AMFA-Ornge Transition Committee or the Local 605 Executive Committee.
In solidarity,
Bret Oestreich
National President
