The new president of Unifor Local 444 is optimistic a deal can be reached with Caesars Windsor heading into talks on Tuesday morning.
Dave Cassidy admits there are still a bunch of issues to resolve, but adds that members feel good about this round of bargaining.
"Our bargaining committee is determined. Our membership is strong, and we're determined to get a deal done," says Cassidy.
The workers walked off the job on April 5 after rejecting a three-year tentative deal. Unifor Local 444 presented a new offer to casino management five days later, but it was rejected during a brief sit down between the two sides on April 18.
Cassidy admits he doesn't sleep well at night knowing that his members are picketing around the clock to get a fair contract.
"We want to make sure that we come away with a fair and equitable agreement for everybody," he says.
Cassidy hopes the casino is as eager to get a settlement as the workers are.
"You can't bargain respect but you can sure bargain a lot of things that show respect for the workers, whether it be manpower issues, etc.," Cassidy says.