Union files complaint over Ubisoft Halifax studio closure

CWA Canada has filed a complaint with the Nova Scotia Labour Board after Ubisoft closed its Halifax production studio and eliminated 71 jobs, announced three weeks after 61 Halifax workers were certified to unionize.

A Canadian union has filed a complaint after Ubisoft closed its Halifax production studio. The closure eliminated 71 jobs on Jan. 7. The announcement came about three weeks after the Communications Workers of America was certified to represent 61 Halifax workers. The union says the shutdown was meant to block the union drive, while Ubisoft says the decision was driven by declining revenue and a global restructuring. Key facts: - Ubisoft announced the Halifax studio closure on Jan. 7, resulting in 71 layoffs, three weeks after 61 local workers were certified to a union. - CWA Canada filed a complaint with the Nova Scotia Labour Board, alleging the shutdown aimed to stop unionization; Ubisoft has denied that and cited financial hardship and long-running restructuring. - The union says its lawyers have requested information from Ubisoft and is seeking penalties and remedies; it also noted the company previously received $12 million in public support from Nova Scotia. Summary: The closure removed 71 jobs and interrupted a recent certification effort, prompting a labour-board complaint and requests for more information. Undetermined at this time.