Accessible, Inclusive, Affordable Childcare Still Out of Reach for Many: Dinn

St. John’s, NL (July 21, 2025) – Paul Dinn, PC Shadow Minister for Education and MHA for Topsail–Paradise, says his recent town hall on education and childcare confirmed that the Liberal government’s childcare plan is failing to eliminate or even reduce the challenges faced by many parents across the province.

“The same concerns that were raised last year remain unresolved, with little to no sign that the Liberal government are taking real steps to address them,” said Dinn. “Childcare operators, early childhood educators, parents, and advocacy groups are frustrated and angry at the lack of meaningful progress.”

In recent weeks, advocacy organizations such as Childcare Now and Advocates for Building Childcare Capacity and Early Childhood Educators (ABCs and ECEs) have also spoken out about the growing issues. ABCs and ECEs have reported that many prospective operators have not been approved to open new spaces and have struggled to receive timely communication from the provincial government.

“The sound of silence from government is deafening,” added Dinn. “Operators and applicants are waiting far too long—if they hear back at all—when trying to open new spaces. Meanwhile, ECEs continue to wait for answers on a pension plan and other supports that are critical for recruitment and retention.”

A major concern raised at Dinn’s town hall was the lack of transparency around childcare progress. Early indicators suggest that the province is falling far short of its childcare coverage targets.

“Childcare is a necessity that affects thousands of families,” said Dinn. “Government needs to be open and transparent, sharing the full picture on childcare coverage, the status of the Operating Grant Program, and, most importantly, its plan to meet the promised targets. Our families deserve better.”