PARAMEDICS could be set to walk out on strike in a long running dispute over pay.

GMB union members of the North West Ambulance Service are currently being balloted over possible strike action.

Trust staff in the town have been waiting almost 13 years for the outcome of a job evaluation process first undertaken by NWAS back in 2005.

Mike Buoey, GMB organiser, accused the ambulance service of ‘refusing to budge’ over the pay issue – adding that ‘enough was enough’.

He said: “Our members have been astonishingly patient in waiting for their jobs to be reevaluated for the years between 2005 to 2016.

“When this was finally completed two years ago, we reentered into discussions with NWAS in good faith but they are refusing to budge.

“After almost 13 years our members are now saying enough is enough.”

But NWAS hopes that the long running dispute can still be resolved and said talks with unions would continue.

Michael Forrest, director of organisational development at the trust, said: “The evaluation of the paramedic role is arranged by an external body on behalf of the trust and our trade unions.

“We are disappointed GMB has chosen to take this action whilst a process is still ongoing.

“Due to the complexity of the process there have been some delays whilst clarification has been sought by both sides.

“The trust is committed to resolving the matter in partnership with all our trade unions.

“Talks are currently taking place and will continue until a resolution has been agreed.”

The ballot for strike action closed on Thursday.