WHEREAS the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted childcare options for nearly every family in our community and has profoundly increased the cost to operate safe childcare forcing childcare spaces or centres to close; and
WHEREAS Ontario has among the highest average childcare fees of any Canadian province and while costs vary regionally for licensed childcare, families are paying between $9,000 and $20,000+ per year for each child and these costs continue to rise steadily which makes passing the associated COVID-19 costs to families not possible; and
WHEREAS a 2012 study identified that in Ontario, public investment in the early years and childcare has a ripple effect in positive economic benefits resulting in an economic output of $2.27 for every dollar invested in childcare; and
WHEREAS the economic recovery of Carleton Place, Lanark County and Ontario is dependent on families having access to safe, reliable, and affordable childcare that incorporates early learning principles; and
WHEREAS we are committed to working with the provincial government and childcare service mangers to deliver positive and affordable options for our families;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT
- the Town of Carleton Place request the Government of Ontario:
- prioritize children and childcare as part of its overall post-pandemic recovery plan;
- develop, adequately fund and release publicly a comprehensive plan that can support facilities through the provision of licensed childcare and early learning education; and
- provide increased funding to childcare providers reflective of COVID-19 operating cost increases to ensure a safe reopening and long-term sustainability for the sector; and
- this resolution be circulated to all municipalities in Ontario, Randy Hillier MPP, Scott Reid, MP, the Federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the provincial Minister of Education.