The union representing striking workers at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver in Coquitlam has not made any deal to allow community organizations to hold events there during the labour action.
In a recent Tri-City News article, Access Youth Outreach Services executive director Jerome Bouvier said an agreement had been reached to not disturb third-party events like its Evening of Inspiration Gala scheduled for Saturday (June 16). But the B.C. Government and Service Employees Union said there's no such deal with anyone trying to cross the picket line, no matter which organization it is.
"We don't make deals for anyone to cross our picket line," said a BCGEU spokeswoman. "We ask all groups to respect our workers' right to strike.
"We understand this is an important organization and we're hoping they find a way to hold the event at a different time or somewhere else, because we do agree it is an important event, and they will benefit from maximum attendance at the event, which they wouldn't get behind picket lines."
She said the union would work with the organization to promote a new location for the gala if they choose to move it. "This is an organization we have ongoing support for."
Access executive director Jerome Bouvier did not respond to a request for an interview prior to the Tri-City News' deadline.
