The federal government’s pre-budget charm offensive was back for a second straight day on Thursday, this time targeting parents and child care providers.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that the government plans to provide more than $1 billion in low-cost loans, grants and student loan forgiveness to expand child care services across Canada.
Mr. Trudeau made the announcement in Surrey, British Columbia, as part of the Liberal government’s efforts to regain the support of young voters and middle-class families.
He said an additional $60 million will be set aside for non-repayable grants for eligible child care centers to build new facilities or renovate existing ones.
The government will also provide student loan forgiveness for early childhood educators in rural and remote areas, as well as $10 million over two years to provide additional training.
Funding for more affordable child care spaces is an extension of the government’s $10 per day child care program agreed with the provinces and territories.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Trudeau launched the pre-budget tour by announcing a $15 million fund and a charter of rights to better protect tenants.
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