Delivering results for families
by Hon. Peter Van Loan, MP York- Simcoe

Working families in York-Simcoe undertake real efforts to make ends meet, and build a brighter future. In Canada's new government, we understand that you work hard, play by the rules, and pay your taxes.

We also understand how hard it is, sometimes, to get ahead. That's why we continue with new policies that help families.

One year ago, Canada's New Government delivered on its promise to provide parents with direct support in child care. Through the Universal Child Care Benefit, parents receive up to $1,200 per year for every child under the age of six. This money has given families added support to carry out one of the toughest, yet mist rewarding jobs of all - raising children.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper understands that Canada is a diverse country and that every child - and every family - is unique. That's why, in July 2006, Canada's New Government implemented the Universal Child Care Benefit - support that helps every family with children under the age of six, regardless of where that child lives or what kind of child care options the parents choose.

The Benefit is providing $2.4 billion each year to Canadian families for 2 million young children. This is in addition to other supports including the Child Care Expense Deduction, the Canada Child Tax Benefit and the new Child Tax Credit.

The Benefit is the first part of Canada's Universal Child Care Plan, which is designed to help families balance work and family life. The second part, introduced in Budget 2007, will support provinces and territories, as well as businesses, in creating new child care spaces across Canada.

Payments are made directly to parents so they can choose the appropriate child care for their children. For some parents, this might mean using the benefit to pay for some of their child care fees. Some stay-athome parents are using the Benefit for preschool programs while others are choosing to deposit all or part of the Benefit in a Registered Education Savings Plan.

For 13 years, the Liberals promised Canadians that they would create a national child care plan.

While the Liberals talked about child care for 13 years, Canada's New Government is getting things done for Canadian families.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper promised a plan to provide parents with choice through direct child care support for their children under age six.

Families tell me often, how the $100 a month for each pre-school child is helping. "Every little bit makes a difference', is a phrase I frequently hear. That's why we are putting families first.

Supporting Canadian families is a priority for Canada's New Government. For a year now, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has delivered on his promise to provide direct support to parents.

Canada's New Government is working to make sure that all families enjoy the benefits of a stronger, safer and better Canada.