Unifor calls on Gallant government to implement child care report

FREDERICTON, Sept. 12, 2016 /CNW/ - Unifor is calling on New Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant to implement the recommendations laid out in the report on child care issued by the Child Care Review Task Force. Those recommendations include increasing public funding and transitioning toward a more affordable not-for-profit model while raising the wages of child care workers in the province.

"Unifor was pleased to see Premier Gallant's child care election promise to provide accessible child care to the people of New Brunswick and this report provides a pathway for his government to deliver on that promise," said Lana Payne, Unifor Atlantic Regional Director. "Quality child care is not only great for kids, but it also greatly advances women's equality by permitting their re-entry to the workforce. A program that is good for families, for equality and for the economy of this province ought to be a no-brainer."

Unifor contributed to Nova Scotia's child care review earlier this year. That report also demonstrated the need for changes across the system and led to a wage-floor increase for child care workers. The union continues to advocate for a national child care program, but sees provincial funding increases as a positive step for families and for child care workers.

"This report revealed what many families in the province already knew - that New Brunswickers are dealing with one of the worst child care systems in the country and that it requires immediate attention," said Lisa Kelly, Director of Unifor's Women's Department. "Provincial governments across the country are finally waking up to the challenges faced by parents who need access to affordable child care. Governments need to take the lead in creating child care spots. We're seeing some positive discussion, but parents can't afford to wait. Governments have to act now to ensure high-quality, affordable and accessible early childhood education and care is available for all kids."

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 310,000 workers.

SOURCE Unifor

please contact Unifor Communications National Representative Shelley Amyotte at [email protected] or 902-717-7491 (cell).