Striking casino workers call for probe of employer

Striking casino workers gathered at the BC Lottery Corporation’s head office in Kamloops Monday afternoon.

Union members are calling on the regulatory body to investigate whether or not the casinos where they work are operating safely during the strike.

Almost 700 BC Government and Service Employees’ Union members working at four Gateway Casino locations in the Okanagan, including Kelowna, walked off the job on June 29, after mediation broke down with their employer.

Workers are fighting for higher wages and better working conditions.

“Based on what our members have witnessed and reports we’ve heard, it sounds like Gateway hasn’t been living up to their obligations under BCLC and provincial gaming laws and regulations during this strike,” said BCGEU president Stephanie Smith.

The union is asking BCLC to investigate potential irregularities in the casinos’ operation.

Alleged incidents include failing to comply with regulations around checking identification of patrons and failing to identify behaviour possibly related to money laundering.

“At a time when the entire casino industry is supposed to be under increased scrutiny, we believe the BCLC should shut down Gateway’s casinos until the company can demonstrate that they are willing and able to operate responsibly,” said Smith.