St. Mary’s Nursery believes that it has a role to play as an advocate through taking opportunities to lobby with other like-minded groups for better early education policies and increased childcare resources.

Childcare Focus Group, Dublin City Development Board
This group was set up in 2001 under the Dublin City Development Board following public consultation meetings the previous November.

The terms of reference of the Dublin City Childcare Focus Group are as follows:

• To support, inform and participate in the work of the Dublin City Childcare Committee and the implementation of the Dublin City Childcare Strategic Plan;
• To ensure inclusive representation and communication to parents and childcare providers;
• To promote quality in childcare provision in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child;
• To develop active links with the Community Forum.

Young Persons At Risk (0-5 years), Child Protection Committee, Dublin 1 / 3
YPAR focuses on the need to integrate services of the public sector and independent agencies in the area of children at risk.  The 0-5 years group focuses on both the needs of children and young parents, and how best to consult with young parents.