Some 600 workers at Air Canada Centre are on strike after voting down their latest contract offer.
Fernanda Santos, president-elect of Teamster Local 847, confirmed the job action Friday afternoon and said striking workers include restaurant staff, housekeeping staff and workers responsible for converting the hard court to ice.
In addition to ACC workers, the union also represents staff at nearby Real Sports and E11even restaurants.
The restaurants are closed as a result of the job action, but Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment told CP24 there are no changes or cancellations at the ACC, and the “fan experience” at the facility will not be impacted.
The workers are taking to picket lines after voting 82 per cent in favour of turning down a new contract.
Friday’s Raptors home game against the Philadelphia 76ers is expected to go ahead as scheduled, as is Saturday’s Maple Leafs game as Toronto hosts the Chicago Blackhawks.
Carrying signs and chanting, striking workers picketed outside the ACC Friday evening as fans arrived for the Raptors game.
Negotiations between MLSE and the union have been going on for six months. The dispute is said to be over hours and wages.
With files from CP24
