The Canada Early Learning and Child Care Act establishes a federal commitment to create a unified, accessible early learning and child care system across Canada, with support for long-term funding and a focus on collaborative efforts with provinces and Indigenous communities. The Act aims to improve the quality and affordability of child care services nationwide.
Families, especially those in marginalized communities like Indigenous peoples and low-income households, may benefit from increased access to quality child care. Women, in particular, might find greater opportunities to enter or remain in the workforce due to improved child care availability. However, there may be concerns about the potential impact on private child care options and regional disparities in program quality.
The Act involves significant government spending on establishing and maintaining the early learning and child care system, including the creation of the National Advisory Council. While this funding may enhance services, critics worry about the sustainability of these financial commitments, especially during economic downturns. There may also be complications in reallocating resources, as funds intended for advisory roles might detract from direct child care services, ultimately influencing the overall service quality for families.
Supporters advocate for the Act as a vital step towards equitable and quality child care, positively impacting social welfare and economic growth. They believe the establishment of a National Advisory Council ensures inclusion of diverse voices, especially from marginalized communities, leading to more effective policy making. The long-term funding commitment is seen as crucial for a stable and high-quality early childhood education sector, which is essential for better outcomes for children and families.
Critics express concerns about potential bureaucratic inefficiencies and the risks of centralization undermining provincial autonomy, possibly leading to inconsistencies in implementing programs across different regions. They also question the adequacy of long-term funding, fearing that economic constraints may compromise the initiative’s sustainability. Additionally, the focus on public and non-profit providers may limit options for families, reducing service diversity and risking the availability of child care choices.
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That the bill be now read a third time and do pass.
That, in relation to the consideration of the Senate amendment to Bill C-35, An Act respecting early learning and child care in Canada, the debate not be further adjourned.
That, in relation to Bill C-35, An Act respecting early learning and child care in Canada, not more than five further hours shall be allotted to the consideration at report stage of the bill and five hours shall be allotted to the consideration at third reading stage of the said bill; and That, at the expiry of the five hours provided for the consideration at report stage and at the expiry of the five hours provided for the consideration at third reading stage of the said bill, any proceedings before the House shall be interrupted, if required for the purpose of this order, and in turn every question necessary for the disposal of the stage of the bill then under consideration shall be put forthwith and successively without further debate or amendment.
That the bill be now read a second time and referred to the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities.
That Bill C-35, An Act respecting early learning and child care in Canada, as amended, be concurred in at report stage.