Statement on the Passing of Medical Communications Officer Matthew Lent
On behalf of myself, the staff, Executive Board, and the entire membership of the Nova Scotia Paramedics Union, IUOE Local 727, we extend our deepest condolences on the untimely passing of Matthew Lent, Medical Communications Officer and proud member of CUPW Local 015.
For many of our ground paramedics, Matt was first known as the calm and familiar voice on the radio, dispatching crews to calls that ranged from the routine to the most challenging and unpredictable. At times, his voice was the one assigning a call just minutes before the end of a shift—calls that meant working late and missing time with family. While those moments could understandably be frustrating from the perspective of crews facing overtime, those who knew Matt understood that he never took those decisions lightly. The weight of every call stayed with him long after it had been completed.
Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Matt well personally, the many heartfelt tributes from his colleagues—particularly those who worked alongside him in the Medical Communications Centre—paint the picture of a gentle giant: a consummate professional who never lost sight of the human side of the work. He brought compassion, integrity, and respect to a role that often demanded calm under extraordinary pressure.
In my role as a union leader, I came to know Matt as a dedicated trade unionist who was unwavering in his commitment to the members he represented. He understood that advocating for workers meant more than negotiating fair wages. He championed fair treatment, safer and better-staffed workplaces, and the resources necessary for members to perform their duties effectively. He believed in building a profession that supported longevity, well-being, and a healthy balance between work and family life.
Matthew’s passing is a profound loss to his colleagues at the Medical Communications Centre, to paramedics across Nova Scotia, to the LifeFlight teams, support personnel, and to his brothers and sisters in CUPW. His professionalism, compassion, and steadfast commitment to serving others have left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
Matt will be remembered not only for the work he did, but for the person he was—a colleague, a leader, and a friend who consistently put others before himself.
To Matt’s wife, children, family, friends, colleagues, and all who are mourning his loss, please know that our thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time.
Rest easy, Brother. Thank you for your service, your leadership, and your friendship. We have the watch now.
In Solidarity,
Kevin MacMullin
Business Manager
International Union of Operating Engineers Local 727
Phone: 902-481-0523
PO Box 38013 Dartmouth, NS B3B 1X2
Download the pdf: Statement on the Passing of Medical Communications Officer Matthew Lent
