Initially, I set out to write a straightforward description of the Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC). I reviewed newsletters, clippings, quotes, and documents relating to ECAC since its inception in 2009. The topic has often come up in conversations with colleagues, including those who have served on the committee. I also examined Ministry of Education responses to Official Information Act requests: September 2024 (OIA 1335686) and October 2020 (OIA 1243402).
As I began compiling the information, it became clear that ECAC is far more complex than it first appears.
I uncovered details that many in the early childhood education (ECE) sector likely do not know—risks that may even be unknown to some government ministers.
Importantly, ECAC members are under no obligation to look beyond the interests of their own businesses or service types. There is no requirement to consider the broader needs of the sector or the rights and interests of children.
The Ministry of Education has also confirmed that it does not know which licensed services are represented on ECAC, nor how many are excluded.
It has stated that it does not hold this information.
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