Following the incident, a union blasted the studio, accusing it of “the most unscrupulous destruction of a union.”
The British union Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) accuses Rockstar Games of grossly violating workers’ rights after more than 30 employees were laid off across its UK and Canadian offices. The union says every person dismissed was part of a private Discord channel devoted to union organising and had either already joined the IWGB or intended to do so.
Rockstar has just carried out one of the most brazen and ruthless acts of union-busting in the history of the games industry. It represents a blatant disregard for the law and for the livelihoods of the workers who generate billions for the company — an affront to their fans and to the industry worldwide.
Parent company Take-Two Interactive rejects the allegations, stating that the employees who were dismissed had “seriously breached discipline.”
We strive to create the best entertainment products by offering our creative teams a positive working environment and opportunities for professional growth. Our culture is built on teamwork, excellence, and kindness. Rockstar Games dismissed a small number of employees for serious breaches of discipline, and for no other reason. We, as always, fully support Rockstar’s ambitions and approach.
The layoffs took place on October 30. According to the IWGB, those affected include employees on company-sponsored visas and individuals with medical conditions who will lose access to corporate healthcare programs.
Source: iXBT.games