Deal reached after more than six weeks on strike

(Coquitlam) - After being on strike for more than six weeks, over 400 members of the BC Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU) working at Hard Rock Casino Vancouver in Coquitlam have reached a tentative agreement with their employer.

"Through their hard work and unity, Hard Rock workers have a solid first agreement on the table," says BCGEU President Stephanie Smith.

"These workers have stuck together and it has paid off - I'm so proud of the commitment and solidarity our members have shown."

Employees at Hard Rock voted to join the BCGEU in May 2016 and have been trying to negotiate a first collective agreement with their employer since January 2017. When they reached impasse earlier this year, 99.5% of Hard Rock workers voted in favour of strike action.

Over 400 workers at the casino walked off the job on May 11, 2018 after mediation broke down. Major issues included wages and hours of work.

Both sides reached a deal in mediation over the weekend. Union members at the casino will vote on the tentative agreement later this week.

"We won't be releasing details until the members have had a chance to look over and ratify the agreement but, the bargaining committee is pleased with the achievements they've made and are recommending their co-workers vote to accept the deal," says Smith.

"I want to give my whole-hearted thanks to the bargaining committee for working tirelessly on behalf of their fellow BCGEU members. This truly is a ground-breaking deal that will help achieve fairness for casino workers across the industry."

BCGEU represents thousands of casino workers in the province including over 400 staff at Hard Rock working in table games, as slot attendants, cashiers, in the count room, kitchen, security, theatre and guest services.

UWU/MoveUP