For Immediate Release
January 29, 2014
CONTACTS:
Yvanna Cancela
Culinary and Bartenders Unions
Gary Thompson
Caesars Entertainment
New 5 year contract covers 13,000 Vegas workers at Caesars Entertainment properties.
Las Vegas – Members of the Culinary and Bartenders Unions voted yesterday to ratify a new 5 year contract with Caesars Entertainment. 97 percent voted in favor of the agreement, which will cover about 13,000 workers in food and beverage, housekeeping, cocktails, and the bell departments.
Elmer Portillo, a food server at Planet Hollywood said, “This is a good contract for members because benefits and jobs are secured. I’m especially thankful to know my healthcare is protected for the next five years, that’s very important.”
The negotiating committee, made up of workers from all Caesars properties and varied departments, worked with the company to reach terms that safeguard benefits and will help bring back jobs. Ultimately, both sides were able to craft a mutually beneficial contract. Negotiations began last summer following the previous contract’s expiration on June 1, 2013. The agreement was reached on January 13, 2014.
The economic package, agreed to by both parties, mirrors exactly what has been agreed to by the unions and other employers. Workers will keep their high-quality health insurance. Changes were negotiated for food and beverage operations to allow for flexibility in closed and distressed venues with the goals of reopening shops and bringing workers back to their jobs. New housekeeping language will increase job safety by creating measures designed to deal with hazardous work conditions. Finally, a new program in the cocktails department will create jobs and maximize customer service.
“Through negotiations, Caesars and the Unions have worked together to reach an agreement that gives workers the opportunity to provide for their families. It is clear Caesars Entertainment is committed to the future of Las Vegas. The overwhelming support for the new contract shows members want a secure future with good jobs and strong benefits,” said Geoconda Arguello-Kline, Secretary Treasurer of Culinary Union Local 226.
“We are very pleased to have reached agreements with the Culinary and Bartenders Unions,” said Gary Thompson, spokesman for Caesars Entertainment Corporation. “These agreements benefit all parties, and will enable us to work together to provide expanded job opportunities as Las Vegas continues to recover from the long recession.”
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