Saskatchewan Faces Childcare Crisis as Federal Funding Hangs in the Balance

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Saskatchewan Union of Public and Private Employees (SFCPE-Saskatchewan) is urgently calling on Premier Scott Moe and the saskatchewan Party to renew the province’s agreement with the federal government regarding the $10-a-day childcare program. This comes as Saskatchewan currently holds the worst record in the country for childcare availability,leaving families struggling with affordability and access.

Recent findings from the Childcare Resource and Research Unit’s Interim Space Statistics 2024: Early Childhood Education and Care in Canada report, released June 30, highlight the severity of the situation. The report indicates that Saskatchewan has 22,734 regulated childcare spaces available for approximately 183,500 children aged one to twelve. This translates to a notable gap between demand and availability, especially in rural communities like Prince Albert and Meadow Lake.

“The findings of this report are shocking, but simply confirm what we already know: families, childcare workers, and the Saskatchewan economy are paying the price for Scott Moe’s inaction,” stated Kent Peterson, President of SFCPE-Saskatchewan. “Scott Moe is directly responsible for Saskatchewan being dead last in childcare access. He is also one of only two provincial premiers-the other being Dennis King of Prince Edward Island-who have not renewed the federal $10-a-day childcare agreement.”

Failure to renew the federal agreement would meen foregoing over $1 billion in affordability measures for Saskatchewan families. The federal funding,part of a national initiative launched in 2021,aimed to reduce childcare costs to an average of $10 per day by 2026,with a goal of creating more affordable and accessible childcare spaces across Canada. The current agreement is set to expire on March 31, 2024.

“Investing in early childhood education is investing in our workforce, our economy, and our children-it’s investing in the future of our province,” Peterson emphasized. “It’s time for action. Scott Moe must sign this agreement immediately.” The SFCPE-Saskatchewan is planning a rally at the Legislative Building in Regina on July 15th to further pressure the government to act.

Disclaimer: This article discusses topics related to public policy and financial implications for families. It does not provide financial or legal advice. Readers should consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance.

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