Manitoba Casino Workers Ratify New Contract — CDC Gaming Reports

Manitoba casino workers have ratified a new contract with the Manitoba Liquor and Lottery Corporation, with 93 per cent support.

This comes just in time for the holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s, when the three casinos – McPhillips Station, Regent Club and Shark Club – will see increased traffic. Unifor Local 144, the union representing 750 Dealers, cashiers, gambling attendants, security, house/grounds, customer service representative and handymen voted to strike on December 23 at 12:01 a.m. if an agreement is not reached.

“That was part of our strategy,” Unifor national representative Suzanne King told CDC Games Reports. “To take the strike authorization and give them three weeks notice before we walk out, to allow them time to come back with a fair offer.”

The four-year contract includes a 2.5% raise retroactive to June 2022, 2.75% in the second year, and 3% in each of the final two years for a total of 11.25%. Many workers will receive an additional 4.5% raise based on years of service and current pay rate. The deal is valid until June 4, 2026.

Premiums will increase between $0.20 and $0.70 per hour. There is also a flat signing bonus of between $600 and $1,800 (depending on hours worked).

“The workers are satisfied with this, but unfortunately this group has had setbacks due to the coronavirus lockdowns, so they have lost a lot,” King said. “They are looking to build on this momentum to get back to where they were over the next two years.”

An MLL spokesperson said: “MLL is pleased to have been able to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with the Unifor Bargaining Committee that ensures Winnipeg casinos and their employees can continue to welcome guests throughout this holiday season, a busy time of year at our casinos. “