Gordon Daman wrote: 

The response from the MCCA is articulate and provides significant evidence for their position not to support the Chambers recent resolution. I believe it would be in the best interest of all our members to reconsider this resolution and seek other solutions to addressing the shared concern that both the MCC and MCCA have in addressing the lack of child care spaces in Manitoba.

If we are truly committed to advancing both the economic and social well being of our communities as Chamber members we may have to reconsider the long held believe that child care is a cost and begin to see it as an investment into the future. It is clear from the statistics presented in Ms. Skaftfeld’s response to the Chamber’s resolution that we are in the midst of a paradigm shift in the current workplace economy. No matter one’s opinion on the matter, the days of pre-school childcare taking place in the home are quickly fleeting. As such government, business and the public at large will need to adjust to this evolutionary socio-economic change.

While I, with respect, disagree with Ms. Skaftfeld’s comment that a simple and quick solution would be a call for greater government funding – I do believe this challenge will call for greater investment from business, government and parents. It is apparent that the long term social and economic consequences of not addressing this issue soon will be significantly more costly that the current funding gaps identified in Ms. Skaftfeld’s reasoned response to the MCC.

Thank you Ms. Skaftfeld for addressing your concerns with our membership. As well, a great word of appreciation to the MCC staff for providing a portal for discussion like this and sharing this information so openly and freely. Deeply appreciated! Keep up the great work.

These comments originally appeared in relation to a post entitled “Manitoba Child Care Association Writes to Manitoba Chambers Regarding Childcare Resolution” which, in turn, relates to a 2010-2011 Resolution “Shortage Of Childcare”. Click here to access that post.  

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