For the past few years, the Union representing Nova Scotia paramedics has been sounding the alarm over the shortage of available ambulances. It's something they call Code Critical and it's becoming even more acute says the business manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers. Kevin MacMullin told the Legislature's Public Accounts Committee this week that paramedicine is a system in failure right now. MacMullin says burnout and stress are a huge issue that is creating a cycle of stress leaves and then additional pressure because members are off. He adds there are a few things that would help with recruitment and retention and remuneration is a big part of that.