In a surprising turn of events, Saskatchewan has decided not to participate in the recent extension of the federal government’s Early Learning and Child Care program, which aims to provide affordable daycare at a cost of just $10 a day.

This announcement came Thursday, with the federal government confirming that eleven out of thirteen provinces and territories have already signed on for the extension that stretches the agreement to 2031. The notable exceptions? Saskatchewan and Alberta.

The clock is ticking, as the current agreements are set to expire on March 31, 2026. Each province has the autonomy to negotiate its terms, but Saskatchewan's stance has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about potential repercussions for families in the province.

The extension not only prolongs the existing agreements but also promises a 3% annual increase in funding over the next four years, starting in the 2027-28 fiscal year. The federal government has outlined a funding range that varies from $74 million allocated to Yukon, to a staggering $16.77 billion designated for Ontario.

In Saskatchewan, the initial rollout of this program has already shown promising results; parents have reportedly saved an average of $6,900 per child each year. More than 16,000 new child care spaces have been created since the program's inception in 2021, with a goal set to reach 28,000 spaces within the next year.

But what's more intriguing is that the extension includes infrastructure funding specifically aimed at supporting underserved communities, including rural and remote areas as well as high-cost urban neighborhoods. This funding is intended to facilitate the development of child care centers where access is most constrained.

The Saskatchewan government has expressed its dissatisfaction with the federal negotiation process, stating that they were given just a two-week ultimatum to finalize an extension without the opportunity for modifications. A government spokesperson indicated the province is eager to negotiate terms that would allow them to incorporate aspects from agreements signed by other provinces, particularly regarding after-school programs which they feel are crucial.

"We’re ready to engage in good faith discussions; however, it seems there’s a lack of willingness on the other side," they stated.

Critics within the Saskatchewan opposition are calling out the provincial government for this lack of action, arguing that it demonstrates an alarming disregard for the childcare crisis affecting local families. Joan Pratchler, the NDP critic for child care, stated bluntly, "They should be ashamed. Families and communities will be left scrambling without this funding. The Sask. Party must immediately sign the childcare deal and preserve these vital jobs."

As this story unfolds, the spotlight remains on Saskatchewan's leadership and their next steps in addressing this critical issue. Families across the province are anxiously watching to see how the government will respond in the face of widespread concern. Will Saskatchewan join the party, or will it continue to stand alone in the pursuit of affordable child care? Only time will tell!