(April 13, 2023, St. John’s) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition House Leader and MHA for Conception Bay South, says he continues to hear from Early Childhood Educators and Operators about delays, confusion, and limited communication on the roll out of $10-a-day childcare in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Early Childhood Educators continue to face confusion on the roll out of $10-a-day childcare. Many are still awaiting funding to flow, which means they’re forced to absorb costs themselves in the meantime. A recent town hall left many with more questions than answers,” said Petten.

“There remain concerns about the wage grid and how and when retroactive pay will be received. There’s a lot of confusion out there and educators and operators alike are still facing frustration when looking for answers.”

Petten says it’s clear the program was rushed without foresight into how the rollout would work.

“We’re talking about something very important to families and ensuring people are able to re-enter the workforce. It’s not something to take lightly, yet the Liberal Government has allowed confusion to rule the rollout of this program,” said Petten.

“Affordable childcare is an important initiative, but that makes the rollout all the more important. Educators, operators, and families are facing frustration as the program continues to face choppy waters.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca