VOLUNTARY redundancies are the best way forward in axing 839 jobs in Dover, P&O Ferries has confirmed.

The confirmation comes in a staff notice dealing with the company's fundamental business review. But the confirmation will not affect a planned ballot for strike action by the RMT union.

In the staff notice, which deals with P&O operations in Dover, Portsmouth and Hull, chief operating officer Helen Deeble, said: "Of all the issues in the fundamental business review, there is no doubt the proposed redundancies are of the highest concern.

"I want to take this opportunity to confirm the company would much prefer to effect the proposed redundancies by voluntary means.

"Management have agreed with UK-based trade unions to issue pro-forma expression of interest forms. These enable both seafaring and shore staff (as appropriate) to register an interest in voluntary redundancy without commitment on either side.

"The meetings with all of the trade unions have been realistic and pragmatic; there is every prospect of reaching an agreed conclusion which will secure a sustainable business for the future," she added.

The notice added that Jobcentre Plus has pledged support in Dover, which will include drop-in centes, providing advice on retraining, job opportunities, benefits and CV and interview advice.

But Steve Todd, national secretary of the RMT said while the union was encouraged by the announcement, union members would still be balloted for possible strike action.

Ballot papers were due to be sent to members on Wednesday.

"We are going to go through the process of balloting members to give them their say on whether they want to take action," said Mr Todd. "Union policy is that we will not accept compulsory redundancies.

"While P&O's position is encouraging, they do not rule out compulsory redundancies."