Photo AI
A business needs to reduce its workforce for financial reasons - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 16 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 16
A business needs to reduce its workforce for financial reasons. All its employees are equally skilled and have 3 years of service. Which staff member should be dism... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A business needs to reduce its workforce for financial reasons - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 16 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which staff member should be dismissed first?
Answer
In this scenario, the business needs to consider various factors related to employment laws and ethical considerations regarding dismissal.
Given the options:
-
A casual employee: This type of employee usually works on a temporary basis and may be the most straightforward choice for dismissal from a business perspective.
-
A pregnant employee: Dismissing a pregnant employee could pose serious legal risks and ethical implications. Many jurisdictions have laws protecting pregnant employees from unfair dismissal.
-
A part-time employee: Similar to casual employees, part-time employees may also be dismissed with fewer complications compared to full-time staff. However, the specifics can depend on the contract.
-
A 66-year-old employee: Additionally, age discrimination laws may protect this individual from being dismissed solely based on age.
Conclusion: The most appropriate answer, considering the potential legal and ethical implications, would be (A) A casual employee as they are typically based on temporary contracts and may be dismissed without as many repercussions.