Caesars Windsor strike debated at Queen's Park, more cancellations announced

Caesars Windsor's decision to cancel hotel bookings through May 19th show that management is not willing to negotiate a deal with striking Unifor 444 workers, said Ontario NDP MPP Lisa Gretzky.

The member for Windsor West called on the provincial government at Queen's Park Tuesday to take action and force the casino back to the bargaining table.

"They need a partner who is also committed to reaching a fair deal," said Gretzky.

"Caesars' unwillingness to come to the table isn't just on them; it's on the premier, because she's responsible for OLG and all government-owned casinos."

Minister of Labour Kevin Flynn responded by highlighting the resolution record of unions and employers in the province.

"We've got one of the best dispute resolutions records in North America," said Flynn, claiming that collective bargaining ends with a deal "about 98 per cent of the time."

"I don't know how the member is asking me as the Minister of Labour to interfere in this dispute, we don't do that. We provide assistance," said Flynn, who urged both sides to return to the table.

The province has sent an arbitrator to work with both sides as the strike enters week three. 

Workers travel to Queen's Park

A busload of casino employees went to Queen's Park Tuesday to show the government they're ready to work.

"They're starving us out," said Manuel Cardoso, 1st vice-president of Unifor Local 444, before the casino announced the cancellations.

"Unfortunately, what we think is the casino is ... trying to force the members back into something less than what we were asking for." 

Caesars Windsor management and the union representing 2,300 casino and hotel workers broke off their contract talks last Wednesday, as the strike continues on. Wage increase and job security are two of the major issues between the union and management.

"There's been nothing since last Wednesday, they broke off those short talks... so we're far apart on what we wanted," said Cardoso. 

The union organized the trip to the legislature to show their support for Gretzky's statement.

"[They're going] just to show support, show the government we're willing and able to get back, to take time out of our day to support the issue," said Cardoso. "They're very passionate about their jobs and do want to return back to work." 

Casino cancellations

Staff walked off the job on April 6 after 59 per cent voted to reject a tentative deal. Shortly after, Caesars announced they would cancel all shows and hotel booking through the month of April. 

On Tuesday, the casino said they would be cancelling shows and hotel bookings through to May 19th. 

"We understand the impact these postponements and cancellations may have on our valued guests," said regional president of the casino, Kevin Laforet, in a press release. 

"Based on customer feedback and our continued commitment to doing what is best for our guests, it is important for us to be proactive and allow them enough time to make alternate plans."

The Brian Wilson concert planned for May 4th and the Darcy Oake show for May 17th have been postponed to dates yet to be determined.