NLIS 2
February 14, 2005
(Health and Community Services)
 


Ministers build consensus on early learning and child care

Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for social and community services met in Vancouver on Friday, February 11, to further discuss and build consensus on a national vision and principles for early learning and child care systems in Canada.

"Although no agreement was reached, we were extremely pleased with the progress made and all ministers left with a strong resolve to reach an agreement as quickly as possible for the benefit of Canadian children," said Minister Ottenheimer. "We look forward to the federal Budget and the details around the federal commitment for early learning and child care.

"Given the urgent need to accelerate development of quality early learning and child care across the country, we have agreed to meet again once funding is confirmed in the federal Budget."
All ministers acknowledged the importance of an agreement for Canadian children, to allow parents to work and study and be confident that their children are participating in the kinds of quality, inclusive and developmental programs that best meet their needs. Ministers also stressed that any approach must be flexible in its implementation and must focus on quality outcomes for children.

"We have moved another step forward. There are still some steps ahead. We have made progress in a tight time frame," said federal Minister of Social Development Ken Dryden. "By working together we have an opportunity to define success collectively. We can better define the core elements that make up quality early learning and child care."

Ministers also discussed the importance of ensuring that early learning and child care recognizes the unique needs of every child, and provides opportunities for children to develop to their full potential. They also discussed that quality early learning and child care must recognize and value the qualified and dedicated early childhood educators and child care providers, who provide children with enriching experiences in safe, stimulating environments each day.

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.

Media contact: Carolyn Chaplin, Communications (709) 729-1377 or (709) 682-5093

2005 02 14                            2:15 p.m.

 


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