First Active, formerly First National Building Society, "absolutely denies" the claim that it is operating an enforced redundancy policy, saying the holding of a ballot had been precipitative "and showed a disregard for the agreed procedures for resolving industrial relations disputes between the company and SIPTU".

SIPTU members of First Active voted by a 94 per cent majority yesterday to instigate industrial action in a fortnight over its claim that a policy of enforcing redundancies is in place.

Although the dispute's immediate cause - the circumstances surrounding a branch manager being given notice - has been resolved with the individual, SIPTU has proceeded with its action, claiming "a policy of enforced redundancy/termination of employment without prior consultation and agreement with the union" is in place.

The branch secretary of the insurance and finance branch, Mr John Swift, said a change in the company's attitude was apparent since it changed from being a building society to a public company in October. He said a high proportion of the 550 members had voted in favour of the motion of escalating the action from `a work to rule' to `a complete withdrawal of labour'. Notice has been served on First Active management that the action will commence in a fortnight.

First Active, formerly First National Building Society, "absolutely denies" the claim that it is operating an enforced redundancy policy, saying the holding of a ballot had been precipitative "and showed a disregard for the agreed procedures for resolving industrial relations disputes between the company and SIPTU". "The issue involving one staff member has been resolved, to the satisfaction of both the individual and First Active plc, with the acceptance of a voluntary parting package from the company," First Active stated. It also denied Mr Swift's assertion that a petty and vindictive attitude had been adopted since flotation, or that local union representatives were being harassed.

First Active previously called for the issue to be referred to a Rights Commissioner but Mr Swift said the case needed to go to conciliation.