MPP Armstrong calls for answers from Minister Calandra for families still waiting for child care

LONDON — Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Child Care Teresa Armstrong (London—Fanshawe) has written to Education Minister Paul Calandra, requesting an immediate update on the status of renewal negotiations between the province and federal government on the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) agreement.

The current agreement is set to expire at the end of 2026.

“The Ford government’s silence can’t continue,” said Armstrong. “With only six months remaining before the current agreement expires, child care providers, early childhood educators, municipalities, advocates, and families across Ontario are facing significant uncertainty. This undermines the stability that families and providers need.

“This isn’t the first time that this sector has been stonewalled by the Ford government. Last year’s renewal was announced less than five months before the agreement’s expiry and only secured a one-year extension.

“Right now, families are in limbo. They can’t keep waiting, and Minister Calandra can't keep dragging his feet on saving them money. The Minister owes families clear answers.”