A decision was due to be made this morning whether or not Parks staff will be paid to work overtime for the Annual Exhibition or be forced to take time in lieu.

Parks workers went on strike Thursday and Friday after two workers were disciplined over an exchange of words with Environment Minister Glenn Blakeney.

Maintenance worker David Martin and sanitation worker Wayne Smith were given warnings over their conduct after challenging Mr. Blakeney at a meeting last week. They deny any wrongdoing.

The workers are unhappy that they are being told to take time in lieu instead of paid overtime for this year's Annual Exhibition, which takes place on April 15, 16 and 17. They say they will lose up to $800 in extra pay as a result.

Staff will meet with Bermuda Industrial Union President Chris Furbert, the Department of Parks and Mr. Blakeney today.

One worker who didn't want to be named said his colleagues have not changed their position at all and will not work overtime for time in lieu.

Meanwhile, Mr. Blakeney said the Exhibition will go ahead regardless of the outcome.

"I don't view it as being under threat because what we're talking about is overtime. It's not like I'm asking them to do anything unreasonable. We just appealed to them to be as sensitive to the situation as it relates to the Ministry and our budget. If they then decide they won't work, we're not proposing anything that's unreasonable under the particular circumstances.

"I am sensitive to their prerogative. They obviously will work a full day under normal circumstances and regards to the event, the Exhibition, overtime is required. If they don't want to accept what is being proposed, there are no hard feelings. I'll just be challenged to get the job done without compromising on the quality and presentation."

He continued: "I think it will be a very healthy outcome. We met with the union leadership on Friday and it was a very good meeting. They [parks workers] will meet first among themselves and then we will meet.

"I think in any occasion there's always compromise. I don't think there's any win just for one side. There's always something that is mutually beneficial under the circumstances."

The Department of Parks is responsible for the maintenance of national parks, beaches, the Railway Trail, school playgrounds and other public lands.