Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to the attention of this House a problem my constituent has experienced over the last few years in dealing with the government's daycare subsidy program. Mr. Speaker, what we should be aware of is that a licensed day home is a small home-based operation that is just a little bigger than a regular babysitting service, where the operator is allowed to have up to eight children and up to six of them of preschool age.

Mr. Speaker, I've learned that some operators have spent up to $5,000 to start such an operation to meet the various regulatory and safety requirements. While they can apply for a grant from the government, the money has to be put in first which is a burden to many contemplating such a move. What is even more of a concern to me, Mr. Speaker, are the difficulties the operators face once they get started in dealing with the government for their clients who receive a subsidy from the government. Currently, Mr. Speaker, the government subsidizes $28 per child per day, while the going market rate is $35. Once they're billed, the government often takes months and months to pay their bills. In the meantime, these operators are expected to care for these children and carry the costs until they are paid. This is not a fair practice, Mr. Speaker.

Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, I'm advised that these clients on subsidy are cut off for whatever reason without a normal notice of 30 days that would be expected of any other client. The operator is then left out in the cold without the ability to fill the spot to maintain stability in their earnings.

Mr. Speaker, the important point here is that the daycare program is a much-needed service and there is not enough of it. The daycare subsidy program is one small thing the government is doing and it's a good thing, it's just that it should be done right and not create hardship to those who are providing this very important service. If these situations continue, Mr. Speaker, daycare operators will be less and less willing to take in the children who are on the daycare subsidy program, and it's not fair for these children and families who rely on this service, Mr. Speaker. I would urge the Minister responsible for this program to review this situation and improve the way this program is administered. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause