Staff at the King Edwards VII Memorial Hospital dialysis unit went on strike for an hour yesterday morning to protest the possible loss of technician Richard Smith. They are appealing for management to reverse the staff reorganisation which could see Mr. Smith assigned to other duties out of the Beresford Swan Dialysis Unit. However Bermuda Public Services Union leader Ed Ball said there had been no resolution by the end of yesterday.

Mr. Ball said: ?Staff made a stand to voice concern about their colleague Mr. Smith. They asked he remain as an adjunct of the dialysis unit.?

Ten of the 15 staff took part in the sit in while other staff made sure patients were not put at risk. One source close to the dispute said Mr. Smith, who has worked at the unit since 1986 was a hard worker with a great deal of knowledge and his removal could jeopardise the maintenance of the dialysis machines. The hospital said the issue was an internal matter and did not affect patient care.