Elaine Dunne
Fianna Fáil candidate for Dublin Rathdown
Elaine Dunne is a dedicated entrepreneur, childcare provider, and advocate for early years services. She began her childcare career in 1983 and now operates two creches in South Dublin, providing inclusive care for all children, especially those with additional needs. Inspired by her mother’s example, Elaine has built a thriving business, driven by her belief that children’s well-being should always come first.In 2019, Elaine founded the Federation of Early Childhood Providers to address issues of respect and fairness within the sector. This group played a key role in organizing the February 2020 protest in Dublin, where 30,000 people marched to demand better treatment from government agencies. Today, the Federation has over 1,400 members, uniting early years providers nationwide. Elaine also serves as Secretary of the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME), further supporting her commitment to business advocacy.Elaine is a strong supporter of small businesses, offering consulting services to help entrepreneurs grow. Her expertise in strategic planning and operations empowers business owners to achieve long-term success. Elaine’s commitment to childcare and small business support reflects her broader mission: to build strong, collaborative communities that prioritize growth, respect, and empowerment.