Childcare anxiety and uncertainty

Date: 05 December 2008

LHMU - The childcare union says today's announcement by the Receivers of ABC Learning raises as many questions as it answers for families and workers at ABC childcare centres.

Louise Tarrant, LHMU National Secretary says "The last month and especially the last week have been incredibly difficult for workers and families in the 386 centres under review by the Receivers.

"The problem with today's announcement for many families and workers is deciphering what it really means. On the one hand parents are being told that there will be a secure position for their children next year but there are no similar guarantees for workers.

"We still don't know what the Receivers' plan is for securing children's or workers' positions.

"What we do know is how important the bonds are between children and their carers. We also know the emotional toll and stress that workers are bearing through this extended period of uncertainty.

"It's going to be a very long weekend for a lot of very anxious families and workers awaiting the details of the Receivers' plans.

"Quality childcare in this country is in great demand. Every childcare professional is needed. We can't afford to lose a single job because of corporate failure.

"It's outrageous that the fate of such a critical service and the wellbeing and security of so many thousands of Australian working families and children is essentially being governed and driven by the interests of big banks.

"Next week's announcement needs to give families and workers absolute certainty about jobs, entitlements and places and in the new year we need to similarly address what happens with all 1040 ABC Learning childcare centres.

"I have written to Ralph Norris, Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia requesting an urgent meeting.

"As ABC Learning's biggest creditor, the CBA must accept some responsibility in relation to its role in the Company's growth and collapse. I hope they will work with us to find a solution which is in the community's best interests."

For further information

Contact:	Louise Tarrant, National Secretary
Union:	LHMU
WWW:	http://www.lhmu.org.au/

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