If the province is serious about attracting and keeping young families in Newfoundland and Labrador, leaving affordable childcare out of the equation is “dangerous.”

That’s according to Gillian Pearson of Parents for Affordable Childcare.

She says investment in affordable childcare is just as important as money spent on health care or education. She says the research is clear.

It shows that investment in quality affordable childcare results in higher female participation in the workforce, better developmental outcomes for children, it lifts families out of poverty and spreads disposable income.