Canadian lottery fans are eagerly awaiting the launch of the new and improved version of its Lotto 6/49. However, Loto-Québec has some bad news for its players, as the Crown announced that it will suspend draws for the game after the September 10 draw, due to a general strike from its professional employees, and thus not being able to launch the product.
The disruption of Lotto 6/49 and the delay of the new product has been caused by the protests from the Crown corporation’s professional employee who in August went out on an indefinite strike. The staff are represented by Syndicat de professionnelles et professionnelles du gouvernement du Québec or SPGQ, however, an agreement is yet to be found with the employer.
Product Will be Delayed
As mentioned, on September 14, 2022, Canada’s provincial lotteries will launch an improved version for the fan-favourite Lotto 6/49. However, this may not be the case for Quebec, as Loto-Québec announced that it will be temporarily suspending draws for the game after September 10 draw. Due to the general strike, the Crown will not be able to launch the product on time.
Since the game cannot continue in its current form due to all other provinces launching the updated version, the Crown agency has no other choice but to suspend activities for the game until further notice. Players should know that the validation of tickets from the game will not be possible at retailers or on the official app from September 11, 2022.
Therefore, the Crown agency advises players to keep their tickets until the situation is resolved and it returns to normal. The Crown has also thanked the customers for their understanding and assured them that the integrity of the draws will not be compromised and all won prizes will be distributed. Meanwhile, the rest of the Crown offerings remain available both online and on retail sites.
Members of SPGQ went out on a strike in August 2022, as a pressure tactic against the employer. And despite the agreed deal in principle between the union and the Crown on August 25, unionized staff did not agree to it. Now, the Crown regrets the fact that the union has decided to resort to an indefinite general strike, as it did a few weeks ago during the negotiations.
According to the SPGQ union, 72% of the 455 professional staff members have voted against the proposed terms by the Crown. Thus, the workers will be continuing their strike on September 10, 2022. Lydia Martel, VP of the union, explained that the offered 2% salary increase in the current financial setting, has felt like a slap in the face for the staff.
Dealers on Strike Too
In the meantime, Loto-Québec also has a situation on its hands with its Casino Montréal, as its dealers continue their strike. In August, the employer claimed Montreal croupiers enjoy some of the best benefits and conditions in the casino industry, and that the employer has already offered them improved terms in the new collective agreement. However, a middle ground is still not found.
Source: “Temporary suspension of Lotto 6/49 after the September 10 draw” Loto-Québec, September 7, 2022
