Edinburgh City Council has publicly backed workers recently dismissed from Rockstar North, the studio behind the global phenomenon, Grand Theft Auto. A decisive vote within the Fair Works committee signaled strong support for those affected by the controversial layoffs.
The motion, passed with nine votes in favor and two against, specifically calls for the “reinstatement” of the fired employees. This action comes amidst allegations that Rockstar North engaged in “union busting” tactics, sparking widespread concern and debate.
Rockstar North, a globally recognized game developer responsible for the wildly successful Grand Theft Auto series – with Grand Theft Auto V alone selling over 200 million copies – has found itself at the center of a labor dispute. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI in 2026 has only amplified the scrutiny.
Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, vehemently denies targeting employees for union activity. Instead, they claim the dismissals were a direct response to the sharing of confidential company information in public forums, a breach of established policies.
However, this explanation hasn’t quelled the outcry. A letter signed by 220 Rockstar North employees demanded the immediate reinstatement of their colleagues, highlighting a deep sense of solidarity and injustice within the studio.
Councillor Dan Heap, who championed the motion, expressed his delight at the Council’s firm stance on workers’ rights. He emphasized that engaging in trade union organizing is a legally protected right, one the Council will consistently defend.
While the Council lacks the authority to directly order reinstatement, it intends to communicate its strong disapproval to Rockstar and Take-Two. This message will underscore the incompatibility of their actions with the city’s commitment to a “fair work” agenda.
Beyond a formal letter of concern from the Council leader, practical support is also being offered. The Council will proactively connect affected workers with available social security and employment resources, acknowledging the hardship they face.
Committee convener Tim Pogson affirmed his support for the impacted workers and echoed the call for their reinstatement. He stressed the importance of engaging with the Council’s Fair Work Charter process, offering assistance wherever possible.
This decisive action by the Edinburgh City Council arrives during a particularly challenging week for Pogson, who also faced criticism and public protest regarding a separate demolition project, highlighting the intense scrutiny surrounding his committee’s decisions.
