Survey into the Games industry highlights concerns around pay, job security and culture

FSU calls for greater engagement with employers around long-term contracts and sustainable employment practices

The Financial Services Union (FSU) have today released the findings of a survey into pay and conditions in the Games industry.

Gareth Murphy, Head of Industrial Relations and Campaigns with the FSU described the findings of the survey as challenging while at the same time acknowledging  some progress has been made since a similar survey was carried out in 2021

Game Workers Unite Ireland (GWUI) is a branch of the Financial Services Union.

Commenting on the report Mr Murphy said.

“The report findings indicate a widespread problem with low wages across the sector with 65.1% saying low pay in the sector was an issue.

Unpaid overtime identified in the 2021 survey as a major issue is still a problem.

24.4% of workers who responded to the survey said they regularly work more hours than they are paid.

The key findings of the report are :

Pay and Compensation: A significant proportion of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their wages, citing a lack of transparency in pay structures and concerns about wage stagnation.

Job Security: Many workers reported uncertainty regarding their employment stability, with contract work and short-term positions being common in the industry.

Working Conditions: Crunch culture remains a widespread issue, with reports of excessive overtime and unpaid labour being prevalent among respondents.

Unionisation: A growing number of workers recognise the importance of union representation, with strong support for collective bargaining to address workplace issues.

Diversity and Inclusion: While some progress has been noted, respondents highlighted concerns over workplace discrimination and a lack of diversity initiatives.

Career Development: Many workers feel limited in their career progression opportunities, citing a lack of mentorship and professional development support.

Responding to the report Denman Rouke, a member of the organising committee of the GWUI said:

“ The findings of this survey reinforce the need for continued advocacy and action to improve the working conditions of game workers in Ireland.

The work of the GWUI over the last few years has helped highlight issues in the games sector and address some of the concerns of workers.

Greater engagement between trade unions and employers around long-term contracts and sustainable employment practices will benefit both workers and the employer.”

END

Link to survey results: https://www.fsunion.org/assets/files/pdf/gwui_pc_survey_2024.pdf