UBC Millwrights Working to Overcome Childcare Accessibility

Despite the availability of affordable childcare options, such as $10-a-day facilities, the practicality of these services is often limited by operational hours and locations. Workers across Canada with non-traditional schedules or those stationed in remote areas face significant challenges in accessing essential childcare services. Local 1410 and the MRC has recognized the importance of improving childcare accessibility for all workers in eastern Ontario and across Canada and the potential solutions to address these challenges.

Affordable childcare options implemented by the Federal government are a positive step toward improving service, but they fall short when their operational hours do not align with the schedules of many workers. Scott Thompson, Business Representative of UBC Millwright Local 1410 Kingston, highlights those services available from 9am to 5pm are insufficient for those who start work at 6am or work overnight shifts. “This disconnect means that many workers are unable to access childcare when they need it most. Extending the hours of facilities to include early mornings, late evenings, and weekends would significantly improve accessibility for these workers”.

Geographical accessibility is another significant barrier to childcare for many workers. Those working in remote or rural areas often find it difficult to access these services. Thompson points out the necessity of creating mobile childcare units that can travel to these remote locations, ensuring that workers are able to continue the vital work that not only feed their family, but keeps industry moving in Canada.

Chris Sutton, MRC Director of Public Affairs suggests an innovative approach to addressing childcare accessibility: integrating childcare facilities into the project scopes of large-scale developments. “When a province invests substantial funds into a major project, part of the budget could be allocated to establish a childcare facility on-site. This initiative would ensure that workers do not have to worry about the care of their children, significantly enhancing the overall reliability of the workforce”.

Employers and both the Federal and Provincial governments play a critical role in addressing childcare accessibility issues. Companies must recognize the importance of providing comprehensive solutions to their employees. This could involve partnering with childcare providers to offer extended hours and mobile services. Additionally, government policies should support and incentivize such initiatives, ensuring that all workers, regardless of their location or working hours, have access to quality childcare. Collaboration between employers and government agencies can lead to the development of childcare networks that cater to the needs of all workers.

Improving childcare accessibility has far-reaching benefits. When workers can easily access childcare services, stress is relieved, and they can focus on the job leading to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. It fosters a sense of security and well-being among employees, which is crucial for maintaining a motivated and efficient workforce. In the long run, these improvements contribute to the sustainability and growth of businesses and the economy.

Addressing the challenges of childcare accessibility for workers requires a multifaceted approach. Extending service hours, creating mobile care units, and integrating childcare facilities into project scopes are essential steps that the UBC is lobbying. Employers and the Federal and Provincial governments from all parties must collaborate to implement these solutions, ensuring that all workers have access to essential childcare services. By prioritizing childcare accessibility, we can create a healthier, more productive workforce, ultimately benefiting society at large and keeping industry moving.

About the Millwright Regional Council

The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is composed of thirteen affiliated Local Unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across Canada. UBC millwrights are vital partners in diverse industries such as energy, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. ubcmillwrights.ca

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