Las Vegas union begins strike at Virgin Hotels after failed negotiations

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) - For the second time this year, Culinary Union workers are on strike at Virgin Hotels.

The strike began Friday at 5 a.m. after the latest round of negotiations failed, leaving the union and off-strip property "disappointed."

The last time the Culinary Union held a strike outside the hotel, the action had a hard limit of only two days.

The union says Friday's action is the first open-ended strike in the last 22 years, which means it can last until a deal is reached or it is called off. The most recent open-ended strike happened at the Golden Gate in 2002.

"In negotiations, the company's proposal works out to an estimated $0.47 per year to wages over five years after deducting money for benefits," Culinary Union Secretary-Treasurer Ted Pappageorge said in a statement. "...Compared to non-tipped workers at The Strat, who received over $4.00 an hour in wage increases this year alone! The Virgin Las Vegas' proposal is miles apart and is an insult to every worker - which is why the committee voted unanimously to refuse to settle for a second-class contract."

The union continues to urge valley visitors and residents alike to not cross the picket line, cancel any reservations, and stay at a union-accommodating property instead.