Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you, Minister, for being here.
Minister, Lisa Beddow runs 10 day cares in Nova Scotia and thinks she could add 100 to 200 spaces.
You've pointed out that we have a significant gap across the country in terms of people not being able to access child care.
She said, with reference to you, “in February, she was clear to say that Nova Scotia has never asked to have the terms of the agreement changed, almost implying that Minister Druhan”, who's the minister in Nova Scotia, “should ask to include private operators to expand, only to have her request denied.”
We know, Minister, that they did write a letter to you. You are on the record saying, “If the provinces would be more flexible, or if they come and ask, I will work with them.” The minister from Nova Scotia has said, “She indicated that the federal government has no appetite to renegotiate the agreement.”
You have entrepreneurs, female entrepreneurs, willing and able to increase access to quality, affordable child care, and you're shutting them down. Why?