Photo provided by Bobbi Ann Brady's Office
Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady is calling for changes to Ontario’s childcare system, saying families are struggling to find licensed spaces despite lower fees.
In a recent column, Brady said parents have told her demand for childcare across Haldimand-Norfolk is well above the available supply. She said some local CWELCC centres are at capacity, with families reporting wait times of more than 19 months.
Brady acknowledged the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care program has made childcare more affordable. However, she argued lower fees do little for parents who cannot find a space.
Ontario has committed to creating 86,000 net new licensed childcare spaces for children under six by the end of 2026. Brady said the province has made progress, but believes more spaces are needed in communities such as Haldimand-Norfolk.
She said the shortage is forcing some parents to join multiple waitlists, rely on relatives or informal care, reduce working hours or delay returning to work. Brady warned that could also create challenges for local employers trying to fill jobs.
She also raised concerns about Ontario’s cost-based funding model for childcare operators, which took effect in 2025.
Brady argues the CWELCC program needs another look to ensure families in rural communities have access to childcare spaces, not simply more affordable fees.
