Bold action on child care required for economic recovery

The following statement is attributable to Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce:

Calgary, July 26, 2021 – “The province’s announcement of $45 million to deliver child care and wage subsidies is one step of many that will be required to move forward on child care programs that create real and lasting benefit to Albertans. There is little doubt comprehensive and affordable child care programs offer a significant return on investment through increasing GDP and broadening the tax base. Therefore, we encourage the provincial government to accelerate discussions with the federal government to prioritize child care in support of a strong and inclusive economic recovery.

“Alberta remains the youngest province in Canada and with many young children and families, the lack of quality, affordable child care options inhibit the full participation of many Albertans in the workforce. Accessible, flexible and universal access to a 24-hour system of care, increased financial support for low-income parents, and training for early childhood educators are all ways we can create more economic opportunities. Given women have been particularly impacted by the pandemic, advancements in child care must be an immediate priority to enable a full and sustainable economic recovery.

“With the commitment of significant federal investment to introduce more accessible, affordable and high quality child care across the country, our provincial government must work alongside child care providers and parents to introduce immediate and enduring changes that deliver a world-class child care system for Albertans.”

About the Calgary Chamber

The Calgary Chamber is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan business organization. For 130 years, the Chamber has worked to build a business community that nourishes, powers, and inspires the world.

For media inquires, please contact Arianne Brady, Communications Manager, at media@calgarychamber.com or at 403-750-0414.