Bus services ground to a halt yesterday in what was said to be a show of support for mechanics who had earlier downed tools.

The problem, which began at lunchtime, was resolved before 3pm, when vehicles headed back out with school runs the priority.

Drivers waited outside the bus depot in Devonshire while talks were held with management. One driver talked about “difficult conditions” endured by garage staff.

Transport minister Walter Roban said in October that 14 maintenance positions had been left vacant — “almost half” the required staff. He spoke out after a rash of bus cancellations disrupted travel across the island.

The reasons for the dispute could not be confirmed by unions or management yesterday.

A department spokeswoman apologised to the public and said there had been an “agreed commitment to work on the issues”.