A coalition representing numerous child-care centers in Ontario has expressed support for the government’s proposed safety measures for daycares while urging against a one-size-fits-all approach due to the diverse nature of programs across the province.
Following a tragic incident where a vehicle crashed into a daycare in Richmond Hill, resulting in the death of a toddler and injuries to several children and adults, the government has pledged to implement reforms to enhance daycare safety.
York Regional Police reported that two of the injured children remain in critical condition.
Education Minister Paul Calandra stated that the government is considering legislative amendments to regulate parking near windows and exterior walls of child-care facilities, as well as mandating higher curbs and bollards in specific areas.
Carolyn Ferns, the policy coordinator for the Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care, expressed the community’s sorrow over the tragedy and emphasized the need for preventative actions to avoid similar incidents in the future.
While appreciative of the government’s prompt response, Ferns stressed the importance of providing financial assistance to child-care programs for implementing the proposed safety measures, as daycares operate on fixed revenues.
She highlighted the necessity of tailoring new regulations to suit the diverse settings of daycares in Ontario and addressing safety concerns posed by proximity to busy roadways. Ferns emphasized the importance of adequate space between streets and buildings, along with the installation of bollards.
Calandra, through a social media post, instructed his team to collaborate with inspectors and service providers to address vulnerabilities and take immediate steps to enhance safety before enacting any legislative changes.