In follow up to the Bermuda Real report published on Friday (October 23) the Bermuda Electric Light Company’s (Belco) spokesman has confirmed the dispute over non-payment of overtime incurred to restore power stripped by Hurricane Paulette.
We reported that workers downed tools shortly after 12 noon when those funds did not show up in the accounts of countless crewmen, who worked around the clock to restore power in the wake of the storm in September.
Now just days away from another month – November, the company spokesman issued a one-paragraph statement in response to our request for an official comment.
“Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (“Belco”) management is very appreciative of the dedication and hard work of all its crews in getting power restored to its customers following Hurricane Paulette,” he said.
“Members of the Electricity Supply Trade Union (the “ESTU”) attended a members meeting with the consent of management.
“Discussions are ongoing between management and the ESTU in relation to overtime pay during Hurricane Paulette restoration.
But he said: “Out of respect for those discussions and the ESTU, BELCO has no further comment on such discussions.”
What that means in terms of when the workers will receive the monies owed remains unknown.
Sources speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Bermuda Real that the unionized tradesmen were thoroughly disgusted that they have yet to be paid after working around the clock to restore power to thousands of customers last month.
Members of the ESTU marched to Bermuda Industrial Union headquarters to discuss the issue.
Hurricane Paulette caused power outages across the island back in September, leaving 22,847 customers without power.
They were commended by Government officials for the quick restoration of power in the wake of the storm. As for when they will get paid for the work performed – the company is not saying a word on where’s the money owed.