Ratio Requirements

[cfred]

Actually, ignorance is exactly the right word. It means lack of information or knowledge. It's not the derogatory word that most people think it is, so yes, those who are not aware of the laws are, in fact, ignorant of them. Most people just have the wrong end of the stick with that word and typically use it incorrectly and as an insult.

At any rate, there IS a support system out there for ICPs (Independent Childcare Providers). The Coalition of Independent Childcare Providers of Ontario (CICPO) has been out there educating since the start of this. We are still here...still working. We have been to Queen's Park to speak on the issue, have led rallies and public information sessions, are attending meetings with the Ministry and agency sector discussing a Cooperative model, have a seat at the Regulatory Committee Meetings where the regulations are being fleshed out. If you have questions or need support, CICPO is where to find what you need. We are currently changing direction and focusing more on advertising, ICP support, structure, registry, etc.....revamping of the website and mandate are coming up soon. Our name is already out there in the news, Ministry, etc...we are in a good position to form a structure for ICPs across the province.

LOL...the Ministry does not care one iota about how much money providers make. If a provider is fined, she will, I would imagine, be forced to sell her home, car, everything she owns and ultimately go bankrupt. Just because you haven't got it, doesn't stop the government from trying to get it anyway. It is a risk not worth taking.

Don't expect the Ministry to support you or any other provider. I can tell you now that it's never going to happen...ever. They are not interested in the unlicensed sector. As far as they're concerned, we can either turn to the agency sector or drop off the face of the earth. Unless it's to bust someone for being non-compliant, they are not going to waste one shiny nickel of resources on us. Period. So if your fellow providers don't know the law, I'd suggest they either read the act or go to CICPO and start asking questions. They ARE doing random inspections WITHOUT complaints, so it's a very real risk.