Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said Tuesday a re-elected UCP government will ensure all Albertans have access to $10 a day daycare by 2026..“Childcare is not a one-size-fits-all solution," Smith said..In 2021, the UCP government negotiated an agreement with the federal government that provides families with childcare through a mix of private and non-profit childcare spaces..Smith said the UCP government is committed to this "made-in-Alberta childcare agreement" that will spend $3.8 billion over five years in Alberta’s childcare system..The money means Alberta parents will continue to have the ability to choose the best childcare option and provider for their families at an affordable price of $10 a day..According to Smith, the childcare agreement already reduced fees for Alberta parents by half to an average of close to $15 a day and created 11,063 new spaces across the province. And parents can look forward to the creation of another 15,500 spaces this year alone.."I’m so proud our United Conservative government negotiated a deal with the federal government that makes the most sense for Alberta families," Smith said.."Our mixed-market childcare system will continue to empower Alberta parents with the choice and flexibility they need to participate in the workforce.".Smith said Alberta is well on its way to creating 68,700 new childcare spaces at $10 a day.."Today I am committing that a re-elected United Conservative government will continue that work and reach our goals by 2026," Smith said..Smith said the commitment to $10-a-day daycare will break down barriers for women and families, and provide every Alberta parent with the opportunities they are looking for, both for their families and in their careers..“Women and families shouldn’t have to choose between a family or a career. Access to reliable, accessible, and affordable childcare ensures they won’t have to," Smith said.."Our United Conservative Party is here to support Alberta women and parents as they make the best decisions for their families. Ensuring they have access to $10 a day daycare is just one way we are doing that.”
