As workplace expectations continue to evolve, the February 2026 edition of the MECA Newsletter examines some of the Industrial Relations issues increasingly shaping employer decisions, from collective voice and employee trust to the growing importance of communication, consistency, and expectation-setting.

This edition explores recurring risk patterns MECA was observing among employers, including over-reliance on procedural correctness, delayed expectation-setting, and the need to recognise unionisation as an increasingly relevant consideration across different sectors.

Readers will also find a closer look at how HR compliance evolves as organisations grow from SMEs to larger corporations and GLCs, a case spotlight examining dismissal arising from an employee’s social media postings, and a recap of MECA’s February Roundtable on constructive dismissal risks.

This publication is presented as originally issued to MECA Members. Dates, programmes, and promotional information reflect the period of publication.

MECA Members receive each edition first, with the latest HR and Industrial Relations insights shared directly with them before selected content is made publicly available.

Interested in receiving future editions first? Explore the MECA Membership to access member-exclusive updates, advisory support, and year-round HR and IR engagement. Use the Contact Us button above to find out more.