Four of five new trash trucks suffered minor damage during offloading but are expected to be in use this month.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, Minister of Public Works, shared the news in his ministerial statement during Friday’s return to Parliament. He added that one truck also had a minor electrical problem.

All five of the vehicles, worth about $140,000 each, are now in working order and have been licensed by the Transport Control Department.

Colonel Burch said: “As the new vehicles have some enhanced and additional operational features, Marsh Folly staff participated in training this week to familiarise themselves with the new vehicles and one was used for the Tuesday collection.”

Colonel Burch reiterated that the once a week trash pick up would now become “a permanent feature of the Bermuda landscape”.

He encouraged residents to purchase wheelie bins which the government will sell at landed cost along with recycling bins.

Colonel Burch outlined a number of advancements within his ministry including a reduction in costs.

He said: “Overtime costs have been cut by more than half from $1.2 million to $320,000, the number of injuries are down significantly, the number of vehicle accidents are also down and the work/life balance of staff has improved since they no longer regularly work into the evening hours.”

A new truck wash station will also be installed at Marsh Folly.

Colonel Burch encouraged members of the public to consider composting their food waste and to recycle.