Photo: WBZ NewsRadio Archive
EVERETT, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Unionized security guards at Encore Boston Harbor are raising concerns over understaffing, inadequate training and low wages.
United Government Security Officers of America (UGSOA) Local 295 is the union representing the 150 security officers. They held an informational picket outside of the casino Tuesday, calling attention to the ongoing issues.
Matt LaBlanc with the union told WBZ NewsRadio the security guards lack basic training that inevitably puts both employees and guests at risk.
“We need to increase the training and make people better prepared for the jobs,” he said.
LaBlanc added that they are also fighting for better wages and more staffing.
“If it’s properly staffed, you’re not going to have the issue where things get by security, where somebody’s trying to do multiple jobs when they should be concentrating on the job that they are assigned to,” he said.
In a statement, Encore Boston Harbor said the safety of its guests and employees is always one of its top priorities "and has never been compromised."
"Members of UGSOA currently receive wages that are at or above comparable positions in the Boston area," Encore Boston Harbor said. "Never once have negotiators expressed any concerns about public safety, therefore these fabrications are merely transparent union tactics to stir public emotion."
The informational picket may continue Wednesday and Thursday.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.