Tories using a Band-Aid approach to childcare
Abbotsford Times
19 Sep 2006
Letters -- By: Surjit Atwal

THE EDITOR:

Conservative proposals to improve the Canadian childcare system are seriously flawed.

The Tories promise to create 125,000 childcare spaces through a $10,000 tax credit to employers.

Haven't the Tories learned from history? Mike Harris tried to implement a similar plan in Ontario, which failed miserably.

Also, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick tried similar strategies, which failed. Furthermore, a majority of employers aren't enthusiastic about funding the cost of workplace childcare.

It is unlikely profit-motivated corporations are willing to spend money on childcare. The start-up costs for developing childcare spaces is significantly more in larger cities, primarily due to more expensive real estate and labour markets. A standardized childcare credit does not take this into account and creates disparity in larger cities due to a lack of funding. The Conservatives are planning to give a $100-a-month childcare credit, which will be taxable unless one parent stays at home. They are hoping this extra income will allow families to afford higher quality childcare.

Since there is a severe shortage of childcare spaces available the majority of parents will have difficulty finding centres to meet their needs, despite having the extra $100. The Tories are trying to use a Band-Aid approach on the childcare problem.

A national childcare program needs to be created to provide greater and equal access to childcare.

Our children are the future of Canada and we must do more to ensure they are provided with the best childcare and education possible.