Garbage collectors have launched a work to rule and the industrial action will hit trash pick-up schedules, a Government spokesman warned today.

The public works ministry spokesman said a meeting with staff in a bid to end the dispute was due to be held tomorrow.

The spokesman added: “As part of our mandate to provide reliable garbage collection services, we are committed to working with the Bermuda Industrial Union and its members to resolve the issues raised and restore service as soon as possible.

He said: “Bermudians from all walks of life depend on the public garbage collection and we are determined to resolve this impasse and restore full service to the island.

“The Department of Works and Engineering apologises for the inconvenience and will provide updates as new information becomes available.”

He said affected householders should use the free public drop-off at the Tynes Bay incinerator in Devonshire, which is open daily from 7am to 7pm.