While the Early Childhood Education Human Resources Council of Newfoundland and Labrador applauds the new recruitment and retention grant being introduced by government, they are already eying some of the next steps that should be taken.

Education Minister Krista Lynn Howell announced the new grant yesterday, which educators can apply for upon certification or re-certification.

Board Chair Joanne Morris says bursaries are a good start, but they need to be sustained over time.

She recommends that the bursaries be integrated into the wage grid over time, and that paid benefits be provided for the workforce.