Press release

Montréal, August 16, 2023 – Loto-Québec is disappointed in CSN’s decision to leave the bargaining table for a second time. The employer had proposed a number of possible solutions to address the union’s issues and concerns, which were rejected after the last two days of negotiations.

The corporation is prepared to continue serious and constructive discussions to make meaningful improvements to working conditions while ensuring that public funds are managed soundly. The monetary offer tabled by the employer is a step in that direction.

Unrealistic union demands: 24% increase over 3 years 

The union initially demanded more than double what was granted to all of the organization’s other employees in the past year. Despite some progress since then, the gap between union demands and the latest employer offer remains very wide. The union’s demands still far exceed what was granted to the organization’s other employees and managers.

It is worth noting that seven other collective agreements for casino employees within the same job classifications were renewed in 2022, to the satisfaction of all parties.

Salaries 20% above the reference market

Loto-Québec offers good working conditions for all of its employees. Casino salaries are well above the reference market—20% higher for most job classifications.

Working conditions are all the more attractive and competitive for staff when benefits are taken into account: incentive pay, many bonuses and a defined benefit pension plan. In addition, most CSN-affiliated employees benefited from the positive financial results of the last year through the incentive pay to which they are entitled. Nearly 65% of hours worked entail bonuses, helping to boost attraction and retention.

The following examples of total compensation reflect the employer’s offer, topped up by a generous retirement fund:

• Security agent: $67,425
• First cook: $65,194
• Slot machine attendant: $70,575
• Housekeeping attendant: $57,648

Attractive jobs: 300 new casino hires

The corporation is facing the same attraction and retention issues as most organizations. Still, the casinos’ attractive conditions have resulted in over 300 new hires since April 1. The corporation is also proud of the experienced personnel at its casinos, nearly 40% of whom have 20 or more years of service. 

Ongoing casino and gaming hall activities

Casino du Lac-Leamy, Salon de jeux de Trois-Rivières and Salon de jeux de Québec are open as usual. The Montréal, Charlevoix and Mont-Tremblant casinos are open on a modified schedule specific to each location, and some services are limited. For information, Casino de Montréal opens at 2 p.m. Details are available on the casinos’ website. The strike does not affect dealers at the Montréal, Charlevoix and Lac-Leamy casinos.

The lotoquebec.com site is also open.