NLIS 1
February 10, 2005
(Health and Community Services)
 

NOTE TO EDITORS:

Minister of Health and Community Services John Ottenheimer will attend the federal-provincial and territorial meeting of ministers responsible for social services in Vancouver, February 10 and 11.

The agenda will focus exclusively on discussing a national vision for early learning and child care in Canada. Last November, federal and provincial ministers met in Ottawa to lay the groundwork for a national early learning and child care initiative.

"Our government�s Blueprint said we would encourage a national commitment for early childhood development, and securing an agreement will enhance our ongoing support for children and parents in this province," said Minister Ottenheimer.

The federal government has committed $5 billion over five years to support the initiative, resulting in an approximate $80 million share for Newfoundland and Labrador over five years once an agreement is signed.

Media contact: Carolyn Chaplin, Communications, (709) 729-2888, 682-5093

2005 02 10                                      10:00 a.m.