The recent firing of 34 Rockstar employees has stirred significant controversy, with the company stating that the dismissals were due to leaks of confidential game features on Discord. However, the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) disputes this claim, suggesting the dismissals are related to union activities.
Allegations and Responses
The terminations involved 31 UK employees and three from Canada, leading to protests at Rockstar North in Edinburgh and Take-Two’s London office. The IWGB asserts that the workers communicated only through private, union-protected channels. Last month, they delivered 220 letters, signed by union members, demanding reinstatement of the dismissed workers.
A statement from Rockstar Games refuted the union’s claims, emphasizing that the dismissals were due to the distribution of confidential information in public forums, violating company policy. They firmly denied any connection between the dismissals and union membership.
Political and Legal Reactions
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed concern over the situation, promising an investigation. The issue was brought up in Parliament by local MP Chris Murray, who criticized the lack of evidence provided by Rockstar and expressed concern over potential union-busting activities. Starmer reassured that the government would investigate to ensure workers’ rights are upheld.
Chris Murray further disclosed his attempts to engage with Rockstar, highlighting a tense meeting that included MPs Tracy Gilbert and Scott Arthur. The meeting’s start was delayed over an NDA requirement, which was eventually waived. Murray expressed doubts about the legality and necessity of Rockstar’s dismissal process.
Union’s Legal Actions
The IWGB has initiated legal proceedings against Rockstar, alleging trade union victimization and blacklisting. A tribunal will assess whether the former employees are entitled to interim relief. Meanwhile, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick defended the company’s culture, expressing pride in their labor relations.