Boycott Declared by BC Federation of Labour as Coast Victoria Hotel Workers Rally Against Lockout

Victoria, BC – Hundreds of workers and allies gathered yesterday at the BC Legislature in a powerful show of solidarity with locked-out Coast Victoria Hotel workers. The rally brought together unions and community members from across the province to stand with the nearly ninety hotel workers who have been locked out of their jobs for more than a month.

In a major development, Susanne Skidmore, BC Federation of Labour President, announced at the rally that the BCFED has issued a boycott of Coast Victoria Hotel until workers win a fair contract.

“There’s no excuse for locking out workers who are just fighting for safe workloads, proper staffing levels and wages high enough to let them live in the city they serve,” said Susanne Skidmore. “The BC Federation of Labour and our affiliates will not stand by while this employer disrespects its workers. We are calling on all unions, community organizations, and the public to boycott the Coast Victoria Hotel until this lockout ends.”

The rally featured support from leaders of BCGEU, HEU, and other labour unions, along with heartfelt speeches from Coast Victoria workers who shared the struggles they face in Victoria’s unaffordable housing market.

“This lockout has been devastating, but the support we received today shows us that we are not alone,” said Melissa Irvine, a housekeeper at Coast Victoria. “With the backing of the labour movement, we know we can win the respect and wages we deserve.”

Workers, members of UNITE HERE Local 40, began limited strike action on August 20 to urge management to pay living wages and improve working conditions. Rather than resolve the dispute, the company escalated by locking-out workers on September 17.

The boycott announcement marks an escalation of the dispute with Coast Hotels and APA Hotels & Resorts, the multinational owner of the property.

Media Contact: Rifat Islam – 604 619 0798 – [email protected]