UNICEF: Canada is failing to meet benchmarks

TORONTO – Canada is failing to meet nine out of 10 early childhood education and child care benchmarks according to a UNICEF report released today.

“To fall short by one or two percent is one thing, but to miss by ninety percent is absolutely unacceptable,” said Chow. “What would you say if your son or daughter came home with a grade of less than ten percent?”

Canada is currently spending less than a third of what UNICEF recommends.

“We are a first world country. Our children deserve first world care and education,” said Chow.

While US President elect Barack Obama plans to invest in early childhood education as a means to stimulate the economy, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper refuses to provide any new money for child care.

“Other world leaders understand that our children are our future, they know that we need to invest in our children for long-term economic growth,” said Chow. “Harper just doesn’t get it.”

“The NDP-Liberal Coalition understands that dedicated funding to an early childhood education and child care is critical in a holistic plan for economic recovery,” said Chow."This is why child care is part of the agreement signed by the coalition parties.”