Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal says it will close its doors for the holiday season starting Dec. 21 due to a continuing labour dispute.
The hotel made the announcement Dec. 12, saying the ongoing conflict has created conditions that prevent it from delivering what it described as its usual level of service. “This decision was made due to the ongoing labour dispute that prevents the establishment from providing its clientele with the exceptional level of service for which it is renowned,” the hotel said.
According to hotel management, the dispute has left managers handling tasks normally done by unionized staff. The hotel said it has faced several “last-minute surprise strikes” initiated by the union.
Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth said it has tried to find common ground, including working with conciliators and adjusting its bargaining position. “Despite considerable efforts by management, including engaging conciliators and dropping several demands in a spirit of compromise, discussions with union representatives have not resulted in an agreement,” the hotel said.
Management said the union recently rejected what it called a “comprehensive offer” aligned with demands from the Confédération des syndicats nationaux. The hotel said this same offer has been accepted by more than 20 other hotels in Quebec. The proposed deal included a total wage increase of 21 per cent over four years—10 per cent in the first year—and a limit on the use of staffing agencies, the hotel said.
With negotiations stalled, the hotel said it will shut temporarily but remains committed to a settlement. “Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel remains committed to finding a solution that respects both employees’ legitimate interests and those necessary to ensure the establishment’s sustainability,” the hotel said. It expressed hope for a resolution that will allow it to reopen with a stable workforce.