A charity representing day nurseries has today published a report which “casts serious doubt” over the Welsh Labour Government’s ability to deliver on its manifesto commitment to roll out 30 hours of free childcare.
Nurseries in Wales are struggling to stay afloat due to low funding rates and rising business costs, the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) has said.
Responding to the report (attached), Darren Millar AM, Welsh Conservative Shadow Secretary for Children, said:
“The report casts serious doubt over the Welsh Labour Government’s ability to fulfil its manifesto commitment to deliver free childcare.
“It’s clear that the nurseries across the sector are suffering from inadequate levels of funding and Labour ministers’ poor handling of the new business rates revaluation, with many providers running to a significant annual loss as a consequence.
“Throwing around attractive pledges during election campaigns without a delivery plan just isn’t good enough.
He added: “Hardworking families across the country will be looking anxiously to the Welsh Government for some reassurance that the 30-hour free childcare promise can and will be upheld.”
