Workers at Coquitlam's Hard Rock Casino voted overwhelmingly in favour of taking strike action against their employer this week.
According to a press release from the BCGEU, which represents the employees, 99.5% of unionized employees support striking, with 90% turnout in the Feb. 1 to 4 vote.
“Hard Rock workers are sending a clear message to their employer: they will not back down until they get the respect, fair wages and working conditions that they deserve,” said BCGEU president Stephanie Smith. "Hard Rock workers are ready to do whatever it takes to get a fair contract with their employer."
She added that the next step in the process is mediation, which is required by the B.C. Labour code, however strike preparations are underway.
The Hard Rock Casino has more than 400 employees represented by the BCGEU, who work a variety of jobs at the casino, including slot attendants, table game workers, cashiers, count room staff, kitchen staff, security guards and guest services personnel.
The employees joined the BCGEU in May 2016 and have been negotiating a collective agreement with the employer since 2017.
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