I don't know the extent of the problem at the time, but I would be prepared to tell you that the issue did indeed exist at the time. The problem has worsened recently, especially because of the popularity of child care services. In recent months and years, the cost of child care spaces has been much lower, as a result of investments and agreements between the federal government and the provinces. In some families, one parent would stay at home because the cost of child care spaces was too high. That parent is now considering the possibility of returning to the labour market because, economically speaking, it makes sense for them to do so.
On November 21st, 2024. See this statement in context.