Garbage collectors returned to work yesterday after downing tools on Tuesday in support of a sacked refuse truck driver. And this morning they were due to meet with union bosses to find out what Works and Engineering Minister Derrick Burgess had to say about their grievance.

Chris Furbert, president of Bermuda Industrial Union, told The Royal Gazette last night that the action was sparked because a driver was dismissed but staff agreed to go back after a union meeting.

"The [Works and Engineering] divisional president, divisional secretary, and I met with the workers at 7.30 a.m.," he said. "It was agreed they'll go back to work."

He said union chiefs had since talked to the Minister and would report his comments back to the workers at 7.30 a.m. today. He said "just about all of the workers" at Marsh Folly took part in the protest.

"At this stage, I can't say anything else until I speak to the workers," added Mr. Furbert.

A Works and Engineering spokesman said on Tuesday — as rubbish piled up across the Island — that the matter had been referred to the Labour Relations Office. The spokesman said yesterday he was unaware if the workers had returned to their jobs.

Residents can take trash bags to the Tynes Bay Public Drop-off Facility from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.