After firing between 30 and 40 employees who were part of a private trade union, Rockstar Games has been accused of a committing a “blatant and ruthless act of union busting”.
Rockstar Games has been accused of a committing a “blatant and ruthless act of union busting” after firing dozens of employees.
According to Bloomberg, the Grand Theft Auto studio dismissed between 30 and 40 staffers in the UK and Canada who were part of a private trade union group chat on Discord, and were either union members themselves or were trying to organise Rockstar.
In a statement, the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) said: “Rockstar has just carried out the most blatant and ruthless act of union busting in the history of the games industry.
“This flagrant contempt for the law and for the lives of the workers who bring in their billions is an insult to their fans and the global industry.
“Despite this calculated attack on workers organising for a collective voice and to improve their difficult working conditions, the Rockstar Union remains undeterred.
“They will keep organising for respect and better conditions whilst continuing to pour their blood, sweat and creativity into games that are loved by millions.
“The IWGB will pursue every legal claim possible to ensure our members are reinstated and receive interim relief.”
Responding to the allegation, Rockstar’s parent company Take-Two Interactive insisted the employees were fired for “gross misconduct, and for no other reason”.
The studio said in their own statement: “We strive to make the world’s best entertainment properties by giving our best-in-class creative teams positive work environments and ongoing career opportunities.
“Our culture is focused on teamwork, excellence, and kindness. Rockstar Games terminated a small number of individuals for gross misconduct, and for no other reason.
“As always, we fully support Rockstar’s ambitions and approach.”
GTA VI’s Rockstar Games blasted for ‘blatant and ruthless act of union busting’ after firing staff
