It’s the fast-food version of childcare, protesters said Thursday of a national company now opening its doors in the city’s north end.
A dozen people lined Barrington Street, holding up a makeshift golden arch and large building blocks symbolizing big box business, while Kids and Company held its Halifax open house.
“McDonald’s, to me, is convenient and quick, but it’s a question of quality. We don’t want to question the quality of childcare,” said Lynn Howes, president of CUPE Local 4745 and herself an early childhood educator at the North End Community Day Care Centre on Russell Street.
Howes said the union is also concerned about the province funding for-profit chains, instead of local childcare operators.
Site operator Trish McCourt said Kids and Company’s Halifax location will meet and exceed Nova Scotia standards.
“There are waiting lists everywhere and I think Kids and Company can respond to that need.”
She said the daycare offers competitive prices and salaries, while addressing unique learning needs including infant programs and individualized curriculum, “which is what all early childhood advocates would (want) to see.”
