A number of new compensation limits come into force on 1 February 2013. These apply when the relevant event takes place on or after that date. So, for someone unfairly dismissed the new rates only apply to dismissals with an effective date of termination on or after 1 February 2013.
Schedule A1 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Consolidation Act (TULRCA) gives unions the right to request recognition for collective bargaining purposes.