dispute continues to smoulder.

The Royal Gazette understands that telephone operators have made several complaints to management that they are understaffed.

The question centres around whether operators trained in all areas of switchboard operation should be willing to move to different areas as the need arises.

According to one anonymous source, three operators are usually on duty at night, but only two were available for the busy Easter holiday weekend.

And the same source warned the situation could worsen over the coming weeks as Bermuda heads into peak tourism season -- traditionally a busy time for overseas calls.

Last night assistant vice-president of corporate communications Karla Lacey Minors said there had been no staffing problems.

But she added: "All issues including staffing levels that hinder our ability to deliver any services that we provide in a timely and efficient manner are being addressed for both the short and long term.''