underway this weekend.

Bermuda Cricket Umpires Association had been threatening to boycott matches involving those clubs which still had outstanding debts relating to umpires' fees from last season.

But it has been learned that much of the money owed has now been paid.

Last week it was revealed that some $3,000 was still owed by the clubs.

Somerset CC and Somerset Bridge were allegedly responsible for most of that amount -- Somerset to the tune of $1,256 and Bridge $1,100 with the rest shared between at least five other clubs.

The BCUA, embroiled in a simmering dispute with Bermuda Cricket Board of Control last season, had let it be known that steps would be taken to withdraw their members from games in which delinquent clubs were involved.

But on Thursday vice president Wilbur Pitcher said that the response to their planned course of action had been satisfactory and that umpires would be provided for all of tomorrow's Premier Division games.

"We will have a full slate of officials for Sunday as a result of the improvement of the situation regarding the outstanding fees,'' said Pitcher.

While he was not specific, it is understood that Somerset CC have paid their bill and some of the smaller amounts owed by other clubs have also been settled.

As for Bridge, the association were hopeful that an arrangement could be worked out with the White Hill club, and representatives from the two bodies were negotiating.

While formation of the now dormant Bermuda Cricket Umpires Union alienated many umpires, the BCUA remain hopeful that many of the union members will now make themselves available to officiate this season -- especially on weekends when Premier Division matches are sometimes scheduled for both Saturdays and Sundays.

Pitcher said that while there were sufficient numbers available for Sunday, others were being encouraged to return to their ranks.

Some of the former union members are still concerned about money owed to them by the clubs from last season. George Francis and Mahdee Shabazz are said to be owed $1,600 between them while Mansfield Smith reckons he is owed about $700.

Francis will be umpiring on Sunday but Shabazz and Smith will not, although Smith said he would be officiating within the next few weeks.