Employees demand 'fair wage package': Unifor
Casino workers — represented by Unifor, Local 444 — at the Caesars Windsor in Windsor, Ont., voted 98.3 per cent in favour of strike action where the issues of wages, scheduling and grievance resolution are driving negotiations.
“Wages have not kept up with inflation, which is making it harder and harder for workers to make ends meet,” said James Stewart, president of Unifor, Local 444 which represents the 2,300 casino workers.
Bargaining began on Feb. 12 and covered wages, pensions, and job security. With a mandate set by the membership, the strike deadline is set for 12:01 a.m. on April 4, said the union.
“The workers have done their part to see the casino through the tough times,” said Naureen Rizvi, Unifor Ontario regional director. “With the city on better footing, our members deserve a fair wage package. Unifor is willing and ready to negotiate, but the employer needs to recognize the work done by our members.”
The overwhelming support for a strike action from the membership is a clear message that the workers want progress on these outstanding issues, said Stewart. The union will continue to bargain in the hopes of reaching a fair deal and seeks to avoid being forced to take job action, said Unifor.
