Editor:
It’s not difficult to find accurate information about B.C.’s new child care initiatives, and Coast Reporter has thoroughly covered this news. But, the advertisement on page 2 last week was more a “cranky temper tantrum” than informative news.
Finance Minister Carole James said the 2018 budget would mark the beginning of a made-in-B.C. universal child care program. And the first steps are clear. Many families, employers, advocates for children and other community members are celebrating the first steps to tackle affordability of community-based, licensed child care.
With a commitment of more than $1 billion over three years from the B.C. government and federal early learning and child care agreement, B.C. is strengthening what existed. The vast majority of licensed child care spaces in B.C. are now opting in and accessing new government funds so that families can benefit from daycare fee reductions.
Fees for a child attending licensed infant and toddler child care are now reduced by up to $350 each month. And for a child aged three to five, it’s now up to $100 less each month. These are big family savings!
A list of all providers (as of July) opting in to the fee reductions is at: www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/family-and-social-supports/child-care/child-care-operating-funding/ccfri_approved_facilities.pdf
Why are not all child care providers eligible and opting in? Some are not willing to abide by requirements, or to be accountable to legal contracts with government. Odd, if you ask me, since taxpayers expect that all those accessing government funds will sign contracts and follow rules. We automatically expect accountability for every penny, including those not-for-profit child care organizations and businesses.
It’s possible that a few operators who choose not to opt in or aren’t eligible and won’t adapt might see lower enrolment, as families will choose to pay lower fees as soon as they can. If in the short term we lose a few daycare spaces, it’s difficult, but I see it as short-term pain for critical long-term gain. Building a quality, publicly funded system that is affordable and accountable is key.
Dianne Goldberg, Halfmoon Bay
