Qualifications

Q        I have just discovered that an employee who has been working for the company for 18 months lied about a qualification and doesn't have an English Degree as detailed on their CV. Can I dismiss them for lying?

A        This will depend on a number of factors.  Is it essential that they hold a degree for this job? E.g. it would be if they are employed as a teacher.  If the answer is yes, you will be fairly safe to dismiss. Alternatively, have they signed a declaration at any stage confirming that all the information they supplied as part of their application is true and accurate?  Do you reserve the right in your company procedures to dismiss someone if you uncover that they have lied about their qualifications or experience.    If you answer yes to both of these questions you will also be fairly safe to dismiss.  Remember you must follow your disciplinary procedures prior to any dismissal for it to be fair.  Point for consideration: if they're otherwise good at their job, do you really want to dismiss them?