Taranto 2026 Mediterranean Games: Union Demands Emergency Crew Bonuses

The UIL FP union representing the Taranto emergency services is urging regional authorities to grant extraordinary economic awards to the non‑medical staff of the 118 territorial emergency service during the 2026 Mediterranean Games in Taranto, scheduled for 21 August to 3 September. The union argues that drivers and technical operators share the same risks, responsibilities and workload as medical personnel and should receive equal compensation.

Union leaders Giovanni Maldarizzi and Vincenzo Palmieri said, “Non è più tollerabile che all’interno dello stesso equipaggio vi siano lavoratori chiamati a sostenere identici sacrifici, la stessa esposizione ai rischi e la medesima responsabilità operativa, ma destinatari di trattamenti economici differenti.” They called for a special bonus or additional indemnities for all 118 staff involved in the Games and requested an immediate dialogue table among the Puglia region, ASL Taranto and Sanitaservice to define suitable contractual and financial measures.