A few more chants and placards have been thrown into the downtown mix. Workers at the Novotel Toronto Centre hotel walked off the job this morning after negations broke down earlier this week. A French delegation is supposed to arrive at the hotel for the G20 summit today.

A picket line was formed at 6:30 a.m. as demonstrators chanted slogans, banged pots and pans, and blew vuvuzelas (connection to recent Italian World Cup upset still unknown).

At 7:30 a.m., a giant inflatable rat was brought out on the Esplanade, which is right by the G20 security fences. It may or may not be housing an undercover police officer. The striking workers began blocking cars at around 8:00 a.m. More police arrived at the scene shortly thereafter.

The striking workers are seeking better wages and job security. Supporters from other hotels are expected to join the 80 or so workers for a rally at 4:30 p.m.

Welcome to Toronto, French delegates!

Photo by Salty Soul on Flickr