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Information from the website of the The Canadian Auto Workers' union (http://www.caw.ca/en/index.aspx)



The Ontario Government's announcement that it is extending the lease of Casino Niagara for 15 years is good news for workers and their families, CAW President Ken Lewenza says.

However, the Liberal government must take immediate steps to ensure Casino Niagara and the Fallsview Casino create more full-time employment within this hard hit community.

"It's critical that a commitment is made to creating full-time jobs for Casino workers, their families and the Niagara community, especially at a time when there is so much uncertainty in the economy," said Lewenza. "The creation of low paying, part-time and contract employment simply means greater uncertainty for workers." 

"The government has given the operator more stability with this lease agreement. In turn the CAW is asking for employment stability for workers as part of that agreement," said Lewenza.

According to company records in January 2009 there were 3,439 workers at Casino Niagara and the Fallsview Casinos. A total of 43 per cent were part-time or contract. By comparison, company records show that 84.5 per cent were full-time at the two locations in 2003.

The CAW is currently conducting an organizing campaign at both Niagara casinos.

The CAW is the largest gaming union in the country, representing 7,000 workers at Caesars Windsor Casino, Brantford Casino, Slots at Sudbury Downs, Great Blue Heron Casino, Edgewater Casino, the Woodbine Racetrack as well as other locations.