Guardwell security staff at the Airport have issued a 21-day strike notice following festering discontent over pensions, back pay and pay rises.

It comes just weeks after Bermuda Security Group staff threatened industrial action at the Airport.

Guardwell CEO Roland Pearman refused to comment yesterday, however, the Department of Labour and Training is assisting the management of Guardwell Security Services in its negotiations with the BIU who represent the 20-plus Guardwell staff.

A Home Affairs Ministry spokeswoman told The present negotiations between the BIU and Guardwell Security Management surround issues related to the payment and timing of pensions, back pay and cost of living increases which are currently overdue.

?Guardwell Security has the current contract to supply these essential services which include access control, perimeter and airfield patrols.

?While we are hopeful industrial action can be avoided, Government does recognise the right of workers to make their concerns felt.?

Government has a contingency plan which may involve extra Police patrols if the strike goes ahead on May 9.

?With the anticipated decrease in personnel if there is any industrial action, the Department of Air Operations will close several access gates and hire additional security personnel.

?However, negotiations are continuing with the assistance of the Department of Labour and Training and we remain hopeful a resolution on all outstanding matters can soon be reached.?