TORONTO - Ontario's government-run liquor stores and unionized employees have reached a tentative deal, averting a strike during the peak summer sales period.
The deal comes after negotiators from both sides pushed past a midnight deadline.
The key negotiating issue for the union was fighting for the rights of casual workers.
The union has said those employees don't receive vacation, sick time or benefits, and can be called in to work as little as two hours at a time.
A source close to the talks says terms of the deal include benefits for casual workers and more opportunities for full-time jobs.
Employees are working feverishly to replenish supplies after the threat of a strike prompted a run on booze across the province.
The union's bargaining team unanimously agreed on the deal and is planning a ratification vote as soon as possible.
