My reaction to the employee would depend in part on
company policy for such a circumstance.
But if I were the one to make decisions concerning
tardiness or absenteeism, I would first and foremost call
the employee into my office BEFORE the problem
became chronic.
If the employee offered no reasonable excuse for the
problem, and did not correct the situation after our
discussion, I would recommend terminating
the person's employment.
Companies must have responsible, dependable
employees to remain functional and successful.