Full Breakdown
David Eby Defends His Family’s Enrollment in British Columbia’s $10-a-Day Child-Care Program
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
NDP premier-designate David Eby said his child was already attending a licensed centre before the site entered the province’s $10-a-day child-care program. He explained that his family “paid the difference” between the pre-program rate and the $10-a-day fee and that they have been “donating the difference” to the provider so other families can benefit. The BC NDP disclosed that the family has contributed $3,200 since mid-2024 for eight months of enrollment (about $400 per month) and plans to add $4,800 by year-end. Conservative opponents have called the enrollment “shocking” and argue that a “wealthy, powerful family” should not receive a subsidised spot while many low-income families wait.
Background & Context
The $10-a-day child-care program was launched by former premier John Horgan in partnership with the federal government under former prime minister Justin Trudeau. It caps fees at $10 per day for participating independent centres, which together account for roughly 10 % of British Columbia’s licensed child-care spaces—about 18,000 slots. Advocates note that BC remains the most expensive province for child care, with many parents paying between $40 and $100 per day. In the spring, Eby’s government announced a three-year pause on expanding the program despite rising demand.
Data & Statistics
- $10-a-day capacity: ? 18,000 spaces (? 10 % of provincial licences) – Sharon Gregson, Coalition of Child Care Advocates of B.C.
- Typical market rates: $40-$100 per day – advocates cited in coverage
- Eby family donations: $3,200 to date; $4,800 planned – BC NDP statement
Official Statements & Responses
Eby told reporters that his family “did not need that discount” and that the donation was intended to support the centre’s broader community services. The BC NDP reiterated the donation figures and said the family will continue contributing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Nobody begrudges David Eby and his wife for their success,” — Margareta Dovgal
- “It's shocking to learn that while hundreds of thousands of British Columbians are struggling with the most expensive child care in the country, David Eby's family landed a plum $10-a-day child care spot,” — Margareta Dovgal
- “What's newsworthy is that expansion of the system has stalled," Gregson said on CBC's BC Today.” — Sharon Gregson
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Eby did not disclose the exact donation amount at the news conference, prompting the BC NDP to later provide figures. Conservatives claim the program will be cut but have not released a detailed proposal, leaving the scope of any future reductions unclear.
