The Culinary Union has rejected the “final offer” presented by Virgin Hotels in ongoing contract negotiations, according to union leaders who spoke on Thursday.

While Virgin Hotels’ proposal included wage increases, Ted Pappageorge, Secretary-Treasurer for the Culinary Union, called the offer “woefully inadequate” during a press conference.

“It took a series of picket lines and a two-day strike for this company, which up until now said they don’t have money, to find some money, and to send that out in public,” Pappageorge said. “It’s still a horrible proposal, unacceptable for workers in Las Vegas.”

The Culinary Union represents approximately 700 Virgin Hotel employees who have been working without a new contract since last June. Pappageorge indicated the union has submitted dates to resume negotiations and has no intention of striking over Memorial Day weekend.

Virgin Hotels, however, maintains that the union has not negotiated in good faith and has refused to compromise on its initial demands. In a letter to the union dated May 21st, Virgin Hotels claims the union “has not made any change to your opening wage and benefit demand” despite a full day of negotiations on May 14th. The letter goes on to say, “Based on [Chris Magoulas, a representative for the union]’s statements, we believe you have no intention of doing so.”

Virgin Hotels has proposed a new bargaining session on June 7th but has not yet received a response from the union.

This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.

Credits: Fox5Vegas