Port workers upped the ante yesterday, refusing to work despite having struck a deal with management of the Port Authority on Monday.

Whether or not Antigua Port Authority workers will continue with their duties today is still in question. Eight days into October, workers had not yet received their September wages prompting them to down tools yesterday.

Minister with responsibility for the Port Trevor Walker says government can not continue to inject half a million dollars into the financially troubled entity to cover wages and salaries.

After months of negotiations between Port management and bargaining agents for the workers, January 7 is the deadline given for employees to indicate whether they will opt for voluntary enhanced severance, or early retirement.