The province is in ongoing discussions with the federal government on what next steps are when it comes to $10/day childcare.
The original goal for that rate was March, 2026, but reiterating what was said in January, Education Minister Brendan Maguire said Thursday afternoon, that target will not be met.
He told reporters, Nova Scotia is in the same boat as every other province and territory.
“The ones that met the $10/day haven’t met, for the most part, their spaces,” said Maguire. “I’ve spoken to the ministers right across Canada. I don’t think there’s a single one that has told me they’re going to meet all the specifications.”
Nova Scotia, he said, has 9,500 spaces.
Maguire added, they are still waiting on an answer from Ottawa on how to lower fees.
When asked about former Education Minister Becky Druhan’s comments, that the province was on track for the $10/day, Maguire dismissed that claim.
“I would challenge her on that,” said Maguire.
He continued to point at rising costs that has prevented the lower rate including inflation, benefits, wages and packages as well as the cost of building.
“I honestly can’t tell you or comment on what the previous minister said, but what I can tell you is that where we’re at right now, [is] in the same situation as every other province and territory,” said Maguire.
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