News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, July 25, 2010
PSAC and SGC reach an agreement at Casino Regina.
REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN – Let the games begin! After more than seven weeks on the picket line, members of PSAC and management at Casino Regina have struck a deal that will see Casino workers, including table dealers, cashiers, security and others, return to their jobs July 27.
The 425 members working at Casino Regina walked off the job on June 3, seeking night shift premiums, family leave and fair pay increases. The Union and the Employer resumed negotiations Monday and reached a tentative agreement Friday, which received approval from members at a ratification vote yesterday.
“I am in awe with the commitment and camaraderie of these members,” says Robyn Benson, Regional Executive Vice-President for the Prairie Region. “”The majority of these members have never dealt with a strike before, yet the solidarity, dedication and determination on the line was unparalleled.”
Hundreds of people showed their support for the striking workers over the past 52 days by walking the line in solidarity, sending letters and cards and donating food and money. Fellow unions, members of the public and Casino patrons all rallied in support.
“The casino patrons were some of our biggest proponents,” explains Fran Mohr, president of Local 40005 at Casino Regina. “We love what we do and no one wants to go on strike, but at some point you have to stand up for yourself. We have our families to consider and I think our clientele really respects that.”
The Public Service Alliance of Canada represents approximately 425 members working at Casino Regina. The Union has been in negotiations with the SGC since September of 2009 and its members have been without a contract since May 31, 2009.
-30-