Danielle Smith has announced a commitment to $10 per day childcare under a re-elected UCP government, April 17, 2023. (Photo: United Conservative Party)

By David Opinko

Danielle Smith commits to $10 per day daycare by 2026

Apr 18, 2023 | 10:21 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Premier Danielle Smith has declared that, under a re-elected United Conservative Party (UCP) government, Alberta would continue along the path to providing $10 per day childcare.

During a campaign stop in Lethbridge on Monday, April 17, 2023, affirmed her commitment to ensuring that all Albertans can access $10 per day daycare by 2026.

“Childcare is not a one-size fits-all solution. That’s why I’m so proud that our United Conservative government negotiated a deal with the federal government that makes the most sense for Alberta families,” said Smith. “Our mixed-market childcare system will continue to empower Alberta parents with the choice and flexibility they need to participate in the workforce.”

Smith added, “We are well on our way to creating 68,700 new childcare spaces at $10-a-day, and today I am committing that a re-elected United Conservative government will continue that work and reach our goals by 2026.”

The Alberta-Canada Early Learning and Child Care Agreement was signed in 2021. It includes a total of $3.8 billion in funding, which comes entirely from the federal government.

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Since the deal was signed, childcare fees in Alberta have been reduced by approximately half to an average of close to $15 per day.

The Government of Alberta reports that 11,063 new childcare spaces have opened up across the province over the last two years. By the time the deal is fully implemented in 2026, another 15,500 spaces are expected to be added.

The provincial election is scheduled to be held on May 29, 2023.

READ MORE: Alberta & Ottawa announce $10/day child care program

READ MORE: Private operators to also be included in Alberta child care expansion