I have worked in the childcare sector since 1983. I opened my first service 22 years ago and have built up my business over the years. I have loved children my whole life. My mother was a childminder and she encouraged me to open my first service at home. I now run two creches in South Dublin. I have a full day care and a part time service and I absolutely love every second of my job, each day is different and so rewarding.
In August 2019 I setup the Federation of Early Childhood Providers as I was fed up with the intimidation and lack of respect from Tusla and their inspectors. This was causing huge anxiety across the sector. I traveled the country meeting providers and the Federation also became part of the Together for Early Years Providers representative group who organized a protest march on the 5th February 2020 where over 30,000 people marched the streets of Dublin looking for respect from the DCYA and Tusla.
The Federation of Early Childhood providers has grown dramatically since its inception and now has in excess of 1400 members country wide.
My motto is “Never give up until the job is done”.
Leadership Team
- Elaine Dunne Chairperson
- Philip Carney Secretary
- John Murphy IT and Operations Advisor
- Joe Duffy IT Advisor
Sub Advisory Committee
- Gillian Powell
- Roberta Hines
- Sonya Duggan
- Crona Byrne
- Connie Hannon
The purpose of this committee is to give support and advice to the leadership committee. The sub committee helps to manage relationships with key stakeholders. Setting out aims and objectives of the Federation.
The group also helps to communicate with all our members. The committee help with long term planning and surveys when needed. The committee will help to implement role descriptions for all volunteers and to develop and ensure the implementation of all policies and procedures.
The chairperson and founder of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers is Elaine Dunne. Elaine can be contacted via our social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.