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Yvonne Jones, Opposition Critic for the Status of Women and MHA for the
District of Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, says that it is evident from remarks
made in the House of Assembly today by Premier Williams that he and his
government do not view the issue of a national child care system a priority.
Last year, the federal Liberal government reached a $5 billion agreement
with the provinces to implement a national system of early learning and
care. The new Harper government has indicated that they will scrap this
five-year plan and replace it with another program that would direct
payments to parents.
"For the Premier to stand in the House of Assembly today and state that
he has prioritized the agenda issues with the federal government and it does
not include a national childcare strategy is disappointing," said Jones.
"What greater return is there than quality care for our children? Clearly,
the Premier’s values are not in keeping with a majority of Newfoundlanders
and Labradorians who feel that this program should remain in place because
it is the best investment in children and families.
"While every Canadian Premier has advocated for a continuation of the
Liberal child care program, it is clear that this government has not even
addressed this important issue with the federal government. For the Premier
to admit he has not been advocating for this issue is most telling."
Jones also expressed concern over the government’s lack of knowledge
where approximately $50 million already directed to the province during the
past year has been spent.
"The lack of a provincial voice to this issue and not knowing where a
large chunk of funding went is a concern. This is an insult to all
Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, particularly to those women, children and
families who view this issue as very significant."
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