Unifor Local 4276 has officially served strike notice at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, signaling that workers could begin picketing as early as 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Strong Strike Mandate
Workers across multiple departments, including housekeeping, front desk, maintenance, and banquet events, voted overwhelmingly in favor of strike action on April 1. The vote recorded a 99% approval rate, described as the strongest mandate in the hotel's history. The union represents more than 600 employees at the historic property.
According to Unifor, the employer failed to address key demands such as fair wages, mental health benefits, and protections for workers who rely on gratuities. The lack of progress at the bargaining table prompted the strike notice.
Union Leadership Speaks Out
“Our members voted clearly for a mandate, and the employer responded with very little movement at the table,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “The time to bargain a resolution is right now.”
Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle emphasized that a strike is avoidable if the employer acts promptly. “These workers show up every day to keep this prestige hotel running smoothly for guests,” he said. “A strike on June 6 is avoidable, but only if the employer acts now.”
About Unifor
Unifor is Canada's largest private-sector union, representing 320,000 workers across all major sectors of the economy. The union advocates for workers' rights, equality, and social justice in Canada and internationally, striving to create progressive change for a better future.
The Fairmont Empress Hotel, a landmark in Victoria, faces potential disruption as the strike deadline approaches. Both parties have been urged to return to negotiations to reach a fair agreement.
