Canada and Saskatchewan Extend Child Care Agreement for Five Years

The Government of Canada has renewed its commitment to affordable early learning and child care in Saskatchewan, extending the agreement for an additional five years. This renewal, announced on Friday, will take effect starting in the 2026-27 fiscal year, as confirmed by Saskatchewan’s Education Minister, Everett Hindley.

Details of the Extended Agreements

In conjunction with the main agreement, the Canada-Saskatchewan Bilateral Early Learning and Child Care Agreement will also be extended under the same time frame. Additionally, the Infrastructure Fund has been renewed for one more year. Together, these agreements represent a substantial federal investment of $1.6 billion.

One significant feature of the renewed agreements is the expanded age eligibility for child care services. Children who turn six while enrolled in kindergarten will continue to qualify for $10-a-day child care until the end of the school year. This provision aims to ease financial burdens on families and enhance access to essential child care services.

Government Officials Highlight Importance of Child Care

According to Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State (Rural Development), the renewed agreements address a critical need for families. He stated, “It’s never been more important for parents to be able to work, study, and start a business, but for too many families, access to child care has been a major barrier.” He emphasized that high child care fees can force parents, particularly mothers, to make difficult choices about returning to work.

Belanger noted that lowering child care fees can save families thousands of dollars, allowing them more flexibility in balancing work and home responsibilities. He underscored the importance of this initiative in improving the overall well-being of families in Saskatchewan.

Minister Hindley echoed these sentiments, describing the agreement as a monumental step for Saskatchewan families and the entire child care sector. He remarked, “This multi-year federal investment… represents more than just the continuation of funding. It’s a renewal of our promise to families.” Hindley confirmed that the government has been attentive to the needs expressed by constituents, affirming their commitment to prioritizing families in the province.

The renewal of these agreements marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to improve child care access and affordability in Saskatchewan, having a direct impact on the lives of many families across the province.