The Ontario Government has introduced Full-Day Kindergarten (FDK), which
could have an impact on the availability of child care spaces in
Toronto. Toronto City Council has asked the Province for additional
funding so that child care spaces will not be lost.
"The City is willing to
work with the Province on a transition plan so these spaces continue to
be available for Toronto's economic and social well-being," said
Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti (Ward 7 York West), Chair of the Community
Development and Recreation Committee.
The City conducted an in-depth, site-by-site analysis to determine the
impact of FDK on child care and the capital and operating requirements
to maintain the licensed child care sector. Without additional funding,
Toronto could lose 23 per cent or 7,284 licensed child care spaces at a
time when more than 20,000 children are waiting for a space.
City Council has requested that the Ontario Government provide:
• $27.4 million in one-time capital funding to assist child care
providers in renovating space vacated by those attending FDK to
accommodate younger children. The care for younger children requires
certain types of facilities according to provincial regulations. To
date, the Province has provided $1.1 million over three years.
• $27 million in fee subsidies for younger children and transitional
funding to stabilize the child care system and to ensure that it remains
stable, sustainable and affordable for families. To date, the Province
has provided $4 million.
Media are invited to attend the two public meetings. Additional information is available at http://toronto.ca/supportchildcare.
Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home
to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's
government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence,
creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and
cost of government and building a transportation city. For information
on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents,
businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
