An overtime ban by dock-workers is having “limited impact”, according to the operator of Hamilton docks.

The action centres on a dispute with the Bermuda Industrial Union involving a person who was dismissed three years ago.

Warren Jones, the chief executive of Polaris Holding Company and Stevedoring Services, the dock operator, said the long-running matter was before the courts.

Mr Jones told The Royal Gazette: “They [BIU] have made a demand that we cannot agree to. They want us to reinstate an employee.”

Referring to the overtime ban, Mr Jones said: “We apologise for any inconvenience this may be causing, but it is having a limited impact.”

Asked about the possibility of talks with the union regarding the situation, Mr Jones said: “This matter is well beyond that. This matter is three years old.”

Mr Jones said the union had asked the company to end a legal case centred on the matter, and put a cap on court costs.

Chris Furbert, the president of the BIU, did not respond to requests for comment on the matter.

The industrial action, which began on Tuesday, involves no lunchtime activity and reduced shift work.