Bermuda Public Service Union members met last night for a fiery meeting regarding pay disputes.

The emergency meeting saw hundreds of Government workers stream into New Testament Church of God on Dundonald Street. It was the first gathering since the union issued a 21-day strike notice on February 13.

The notice period will end on March 5, this coming Wednesday.

While Union boss Armell Thomas would not comment on what happened during the hour long meeting, The Royal Gazette heard repeated references to the large amounts of money Government pays to consultants, Bermuda's high cost of living and pension contributions from outside the meeting.

And one woman, who would not be named, said that she believed the workers would follow through with their threat of a strike.

Earlier this month Mr. Thomas warned his members would "close down the whole island" if Government doesn't back down.

It is understood the BPSU is pushing for a 5.1 percent rise but have been offered four percent, which is slightly higher than inflation, running at 3.6 percent according to the latest figures from December. However, one percent of that rise will be subtracted for pensions, giving a below inflation award.

Recent pay awards to the BPSU have normally exceeded inflation. They were awarded a 4.5 percent rise in 2004 with inflation then running at 3.6 percent.

The award for 2005-06 was 4.5 percent when inflation stood at 3.1 percent and the 2006-07 award was four percent — again above inflation. That deal ran out in October, 2007.

BPSU General Secretary Ed Ball declined to speak last night.