Unite union is doing group bargaining with the Centra Hotel management. Rather than sign a collective agreement that the union was not happy with Unite opted to conduct ongoing bargaining all year round.

The latest round of talks has resulted in a number of improvements.

• There will be more fulltime positions made available. Two are being advertised in the housekeeping department.


• More linen is being supplied, to alleviate shortages.


• New uniforms for those who need them are being supplied.


• An unpleasant duties allowance of $30 is being implemented. The union requested $25 for cleaning up vomit, blood, excrement, used condoms etc. The company said they will pay $30. Union fully agreed!


• A review of the start rate involving the union is planned, with an increase likely


• A review of the way people move up the pay grid will be done with union involvement


• Room Allocations: Housekeepers struggle to get 15 rooms done in 8 hours without cutting corners. Union reps will meet with the new Executive Housekeeper to look in to how best to set room allocations.