Buses are not expected to run this morning as a labour withdrawal over immigration legislation continues.

The Ministry of Tourism Development and Transport yesterday afternoon announced that the bus service would be cancelled at least during the morning, adding: “The ministry apologises for this development and will keep the public advised on the status of service.”

The announcement came shortly after the Bermuda Union of Teachers called on members to follow their consciences in advance of a further withdrawal of labour.

In a statement to members yesterday, the union stated: “Please be advised that there has been a further call for an island-wide withdrawal of labour tomorrow.

“Brothers and sisters, once again, the matter of immigration reform is not directly related to our collective bargaining agreement; rather, it is a matter of national significance.

“The constitution of Bermuda affords every citizen the right to protest and the freedom of association. As citizens of this great island, on the matter of immigration reform, we urge you to let your conscience be your guide.”

Meanwhile, the Bermuda Employers’ Association has released an advisory to members stating that the impact could be the same as the actions on Friday.

“Employers receiving requests for time off on Monday or other days during the week might consider directing those staff to take time during their lunch hour,” the statement read. “Please bear in mind there is a likelihood staff may return late from lunch or there may be requests for an extended lunch hour. Some employers on Friday granted some requests for unpaid time off if it could be accommodated.

“Staff are not expected to leave their places of employment without authorisation. Employers faced with staff leaving without authorisation should treat such staff according to the firm’s policy and in accordance with any other similar cases.”

Public transportation, waste collection and other government services were halted on Friday as more than 1,000 people descended on Parliament to protest the controversial Pathways to Status immigration legislation.

While Michael Fahy, the Minister of Home Affairs, has said the legislation was the right thing to do morally and economically, opponents have criticised a lack of consultation, calling for a bipartisan approach.