Ubisoft Halifax workers rally to urge reopening of studio

More than 50 former employees and supporters rallied in Halifax after Ubisoft announced the studio's closure on Jan. 7 and laid off 71 staff; the union has filed a labour board complaint alleging the closure was intended to frustrate unionization.

More than 50 former Halifax Ubisoft employees and supporters gathered at the city's Grand Parade to call for the studio to be reopened. Ubisoft announced on Jan. 7 that it was closing the Halifax operation and laying off 71 staff. The shutdown followed the recent formation of a union at the studio and prompted a labour board complaint. Key facts: - Ubisoft announced the Halifax studio closure on Jan. 7 and laid off 71 employees. - Workers at the studio had recently formed a union and 61 employees were certified to be represented by CWA Canada. - The union filed a complaint with the labour board alleging the closure was meant to keep out the union and has asked for reinstatement and compensation. - Ubisoft has said the decision was part of broader efforts to streamline operations and has been negotiating with the union over severance and salary continuance. Summary: The rally highlights ongoing labour tensions after the sudden studio closure and layoffs. The union has pursued remedies through the labour board and negotiations over severance are continuing. Participants also called on the provincial government to speak in support of the workers. Outcomes and any labour board decisions are undetermined at this time.