Red tape fuels daycare shortage

The Editor,

I'm the owner of Garderie Rhenix in Val-des-Monts, QC and I would like to open a second daycare location in Wakefield. As many parents know, it's extremely difficult to find childcare in the area. If I can open this new daycare, there would be six spots available. I love working in early childhood education; however, it's very challenging to open a daycare when municipalities have so many roadblocks in place. I would like to share my experience trying to open this second daycare in hopes of helping families understand why there may be a shortage in childcare. I contacted the municipality La Pêche three weeks ago, asking for a daycare permit. Each time I call back for an update, I am quickly dismissed, and they never return my e-mails. As a mother of two toddlers, this is very frustrating as I understand the daycare shortage firsthand. The reason I opened my daycare in Val-des- Monts is because I couldn't find two available spots for my own kids. I want to help other families by opening this second daycare, but I can't do it without the municipality and community's support!

Selena Beaven

Val-des-Monts, QC