New York: Seneca Niagara casino workers attempting to unionize

Sunday, January 5, 2025 11:04 AM
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  • Robert Creenan, Niagara Gazette

Twenty years after a first attempt failed, workers at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino are again trying to unionize.

Vernon Lohan, an organizer and former casino employee working in the food and beverage department, said the effort started on Dec. 12. Organizers are working with Teamsters Local 449, which represents various industries in Erie and Niagara counties from freight, construction and linen workers to bus drivers.

“You’re not given a fair handshake over there,” Lohan said, claiming that workers there would be terminated for reasons that would merit only a warning. He added workers are asking for proper pay raises and job protection measures.