This security guard appears to be checking the locks on the gates at Jamaica Pre-Mix Limited, where scores of workers employed to the company withdrew their services yesterday.

The workers are threatening to remain off the job until management withdraws its decision to terminate the services of a number of mixer drivers and pump operators. They told the Observer that they were affronted by what they described as the high-handed approach taken by management in announcing its decision. “The management disregards the workers totally,” chief union delegate C Barrett complained.

According to Pre-Mix, it anticipated that with increased business opportunities to become available in the west end of the island shortly, the company would engage workers as would be necessary to operate the equipment there. The company said it was prepared to discuss an option with the terminated employees who were willing to work at the respective western sites without making any claim for any related relocation expenses.