All cargo operations at the Port in the capital city were disrupted yesterday, as workers downed tools in protest.

The workers are frustrated by health and safety issues, as well as a salary dispute.

The Port Authority noted that despite workers being absent, there were no disruptions to the inter-island sea bridge service.

There were minimal deliveries at the One Stop Barrel Shop.

The authority expects that the cargo handling operations to be fully resumed today.

The backup of trucks carrying cargo led to a traffic gridlock in and around the port area along Wrightson Road.

Meanwhile, the port workers yesterday staged a demonstration at the SWWTU Hall on Wrightson Road.

NATUC’s head Michael Anisette says the worker grievances include the poor conditions of equipment and a lack of essential safety gear, as well as operating vehicles in hazardous conditions.

But their main gripe was a wage dispute, as management failed to implement a previously agreed-upon 12 per cent increase for the 2014 to 2017 period.

He said they were informed of a proposed two per cent increase for the same period, which they deem as unacceptable and insulting.