Hundreds of resort workers in a popular B.C. tourist destination are on a three-day strike, according to their union.
Workers at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa, about 100 kilometres east of Vancouver, are asking for provisions including “significant” wage increases, better overtime pay and advance notice of scheduling changes.
Unite Here Local 40 represents more than 200 resort staff, including room attendants, front desk agents, servers, cooks and dishwashers.
Spokesperson Michelle Travis said bargaining talks with management broke off Thursday.
Since May, the union has been bargaining for a new contract with resort management. More than 96 per cent of the union’s members voted to strike.
Most workers are making $18 to $20 an hour, according to Travis.
“Housing has just gotten out of reach, even in that area. And so workers feel that they’re struggling to get by,” Travis said in an interview.
“We’re hearing stories about folks who are having a hard time putting food on the table, and that’s unacceptable.”
3-day strike
The strike is only scheduled to last three days, with workers expected to return to work on Monday.
“The goal would be to get back to the bargaining table and to see if management can put forward a proposal that meets the needs of what workers have been raising,” Travis said.
Aldesta Hotels Group owns the resort. The company also owns hotels in B.C. and Australia. Last year, it acquired the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort in the B.C. Interior.
Aldesta Hotels Group is, in turn, owned by Saliance Global Holdings.
In a statement to CBC News, Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa said, “We are dedicated to maintaining a positive and respectful dialogue with our valued employees.”
It added that it’s actively working with union representatives to address concerns and reach an agreement.
“We appreciate the understanding and patience of our guests and community during this time,” the resort said.