Finance Minister Carole James broke from the pre-budget tradition of buying shoes to visit a daycare this morning at the YMCA-YWCA Victoria on Broughton Street.
“I wanted to make sure that I did something that reminded us what the budget is really about. This is really about people in this province and providing them with support and ensuring we have a strong economy and nothing is more important than child care,” James told reporters.
“I think it will be no surprise that child care will be a big feature in the budget tomorrow.”
James, however, did not give specifics on the child care plan, only hinting that “people will be pleased. It will be a big step.”
When James entered the daycare, she told the kids: “At my work, we’re talking about daycare and child care and how wonderful it is.”
She brought a book, Pete the Cat, which she read to the group of a dozen kids, who sat attentively on the carpet and on the black couch next to her.
James learned some of the kids’ names — Andrew, Amelia, Tyson, Audrey — and then said: “Thanks for letting me talk about child care to you guys today, so I can talk about how important it is to look after you guys.”
The kids then left for snacks and playtime.
Parents and child care advocates have been anticipating an announcement on affordable childcare since it was a central campaign platform for the NDP.
September’s budget included $20 million for up to 4,100 new child care spaces but did not include plans for a universal $10-a-day program.
James said at the time the government wanted to consult with families and child care providers in order to find a plan that’s endorsed by both the NDP and Green parties.
