Caesars Windsor workers have rejected the second tentative deal.

The union says 53 per cent voted against the proposed contract. That means the casino strike continues.

“This is unfortunate,” said Kevin Laforet, regional president of Caesars Entertainment, in a statement. “We are incredibly disappointed in the outcome of today’s vote which was fully endorsed by both the Unifor National and Local 444 Bargaining teams."

Friday marked day 43 of the strike, now the longest in the casino’s history.

Here is what the workers rejected:

The second tentative deal included a wage increase of $2.25 over four years, a signing bonus of $1,600 for full-time employees and $1,200 for part-time employees. It also featured new retirement incentives.

The tentative contract was reached on Thursday around 1:30 a.m. between the casino and Unifor Local 444. Workers started filing into the WFCU Centre at 10 a.m. Friday for the ratification vote. The votes were counted by early afternoon.

One of the striking workers, Erlinda Roque, says she is disappointed by the vote.

“That’s the way the community will look at us, that we’re all fools,” says Roque. “Your pride, your stupidity will not put food on your table, will not pay your bills and put a roof over your head.”

About 2,100 workers walked off the job April 6, after rejecting an earlier tentative agreement. It included wage increases, a signing bonus, increase in pension contributions and improved job security for restaurant workers.

The union says wages and working conditions were their key issues in the dispute.

The incoming local president, Dave Cassidy, was visibly shaken by the result of the ratification vote.

“Ya it’s tough,” admitted Cassidy. “The facts of the matter are when I was up there on stage, I was very clear that we have squeezed the wash cloth. There’s not another drop to get there.”

“We need to go back and I got to get with my team and we gotta talk about it,” added Cassidy.

Caesars Windsor postponed all concerts and cancelled hotel reservations through the end of May.

“The agreement is more than fair and sustainable,” said Laforet. “I personally want to apologize for the continued inconvenience this causes our customers. The long term effect on our business goes well beyond revenue loss and is immeasurable.”

Laforet says at this time, there are no plans to return to the bargaining table.

He adds information about the future events and shows affected by the extended strike will be shared soon.