On Saturday, workers at three Montreal hotels took part in surprise strikes, causing disruptions for guests and management alike.
The strikes were organized by employees of the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Elizabeth Hotel, and the Hotel Bonaventure, all of which are owned by the same company. The workers, who are represented by the union Unite Here Local 40, are demanding better working conditions and higher wages.
According to the union, the strikes were a last resort after months of unsuccessful negotiations with the hotel management. Workers have been without a contract since December 2020 and have been pushing for fair wages and improved job security.
The strikes began at 9 a.m. on Saturday and lasted for several hours, with workers picketing outside the hotels and chanting slogans such as “Fair wages now!” and “No contract, no peace!” Guests were met with delays and disruptions as they tried to check in or access hotel services.
In a statement, the union stated that the strikes were meant to send a message to the hotel management that workers are not willing to accept subpar working conditions any longer. They also called on the public to support their cause and put pressure on the hotels to negotiate a fair contract.
The hotel management has yet to release an official statement regarding the strikes. However, a spokesperson for the company did confirm that negotiations are ongoing and that they are committed to finding a resolution that is satisfactory for both parties.
This is not the first time that workers at these hotels have gone on strike. In 2018, employees at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth staged a 105-day strike, which resulted in a new contract with improved wages and benefits.
The union has stated that they are prepared to continue striking until their demands are met. They have also called for a boycott of the three hotels until a fair contract is negotiated.
The surprise strikes have caused disruptions for guests and have brought attention to the ongoing struggles of hotel workers in Montreal. As negotiations continue, it remains to be seen how the situation will be resolved and what impact it will have on the hospitality industry in the city.
