INDEPTH: DAY CARE
Day Care in Canada
CBC Television News Online, February 9, 2005
It was first proposed in 1970 a program that would provide affordable day care across the country.
It was promised when Brian Mulroney and the Conservatives swept to power in 1984. And again four years later.
By the time Jean Chretien's Liberals did some political sweeping of their own in 1993, promises of a national
day-care strategy had fallen victim to the realities of a government wallowing in debt. With budgetary knives
sharpened and drawn, day care would have to wait.
But the economic climate began to shift and in 1997, Quebec introduced its own day-care system, offering spaces at
$5 a day. Demand quickly surpassed supply.
More ..
Government of Alberta
NEWS RELEASE October 18, 2004
New legislation enhances support for children, youth and families
Edmonton, Alberta... On Nov. 1, the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act comes into force in Alberta. This new act supports the development and well-being of Alberta's children, youth and families while keeping them safe and protected.
The legislation increases services to families before they reach crisis, more quickly establishes permanent homes for children in government care and strengthens the involvement of First Nations, Metis and other aboriginal communities in planning for their children.
"The Enhancement Act was the result of listening to Albertans and their hopes that each child could be nurtured and grow up to reach their full potential," said Children's Services Minister Iris Evans. "The act provides flexibility in delivering services for families that need extra help, emphasizes the responsibility parents have in caring for their children and recognizes the important role cultural heritage plays in a child's development."
The Enhancement Act also places greater emphasis on:
- The safety and well-being of children and youth
- Increased involvement of children and families in decision-making
- Increased collaboration and partnerships with the community
Access to identifying information contained in adoption records will be opened under the Enhancement Act. This change will affect all adoptions granted in the province prior to January 1, 2005. Birth parents and adoptees, who are 18 years and older, may obtain identifying information about one another, unless a veto is in place at the time of the request.
The Enhancement Act was developed through an extensive consultation with stakeholders and the public during the Child Welfare Act Review led by MLA Harvey Cenaiko in 2001-02. When the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act comes into force on November 1, 2004, it will replace the Child Welfare Act.
To learn more about the Enhancement Act, visit click here
For more information, contact:
Lorelei Fiset-Cassidy
Children's Services Communications
(780) 427-4801
For toll-free access in Alberta, dial 310-0000.
Copyright(c); 2004 Government of Alberta