By EMS1 Staff
FARMINGTON, Conn. — A local hospital has decided to shut down its standalone fire and paramedic services, citing fiscal concerns.
UConn Health Center officials said the decision was made to follow a standard model where fire services are provided by surrounding municipalities.
“Given the long and proud tradition associated with the UConn Health fire department, this was not an easy decision,” Dr. Andrew Agwunobi said. “However, UConn Health has to make such hard choices to protect its core mission of research, teaching and patient care while dealing with the reality of financial pressures.”
The decision was met with outcry by some, who said the closure will leave many unemployed, reported WTNH. The Southbury Training School, a place for people with severe disabilities, will also be shut down.
“This is unacceptable and short-sighted. These workers provide a vital service to UConn and the Southbury Training School and to simply eliminate their jobs will put both facilities at risk,” Lori Pelletier, Connecticut AFL-CIO president, said. “Simply put, budgets should not be balanced on the backs of firefighters and other public service workers.”