Uruguay state casino workers protest in Punta del Este

Workers from Uruguay's state-run casinos held a demonstration outside Casino Nogaro in Punta del Este as part of an ongoing labor dispute with the National Casino Directorate, in a conflict centered on changes to working conditions, pay structures and collective bargaining procedures across Casinos del Estado venues.

The protest brought together employees from Casino Nogaro, Punta Shopping and Atlántico Shopping gaming facilities. Worker representatives stated that the dispute began after internal operational and budget changes were introduced by casino authorities without prior negotiation through formal collective bargaining channels.

According to employees, the measures affected salary components, role structures and the administrative career framework within the state casino network.

Union representatives said the conflict also reflects broader concerns about organizational changes linked to future modernization and digital gaming initiatives, noting that workers are seeking participation in discussions that may impact job functions and long-term staffing models.

Employees said the absence of agreed-upon negotiations has generated uncertainty regarding pay progression, workloads and operational stability at multiple venues.

As a result of the dispute, state-operated casino facilities remain closed through January 1, with a tentative reopening scheduled for January 2. Workers indicated, however, that reopening will depend on the outcome of ongoing talks with the National Casino Directorate and warned that operational disruptions could continue if no agreement is reached.

The closures coincide with Punta del Este's peak summer tourism period, when visitor traffic and on-site casino activity typically increase. Workers said the suspension of operations during this period has both employment and commercial implications for venues in the Maldonado department, affecting service continuity and revenue flows during a high-demand cycle.

Union representatives confirmed that negotiations will continue in the coming days and stated that further demonstrations or measures remain under consideration until a formal resolution is reached.