Election Talk Forum: Issue of importance to me in the federal election - DAYCARE
The Local [Sunshine Coast]
Oct 2, 2008
Dianne Goldberg, Halfmoon Bay

One of the federal election issues that matters to me is daycare.

We need to elect MP’s and parties that understand the current child care crisis and are committed to make big changes so that every family that chooses to can access a quality, affordable, daycare space.

We know that B.C. has the highest child poverty rate (for the fifth year in a row), that adults with children (especially women) cannot contribute to the economy and support their family if they can't work, and that tax dollars to build and sustain quality daycare will reduce other social spending and boost the economy.

Looking at other countries, we have learned that improvements to maternity and parental leave complement a day care system. I am looking for a daycare plan that includes legislation and agreements with the provinces. Our MP’s need to ensure taxpayers, that dollars are used for lowering parent fees; funding existing and creating new licensed spaces to accommodate the number of children in our communities; and for improving wages of the child care workers.

Canada needs a universal child care system that meets the developmental needs of children [birth to 12 years], supports the economy and women’s equality, and is a key plank in tackling child poverty.