Childcare centres raise alarm over delayed service agreement

The Childcare Centre Providers Association (CCPA) and the Malta Chamber of SMEs, representing more than 80 per cent of Malta’s childcare centre operators, have voiced their concerns over delays in negotiations surrounding the new service agreement, which expired last December.

A new agreement, initially expected to be finalised by end of December, has yet to materialise – prompting frustration and concern within the sector.

Speaking on behalf of the association, President Simon Zammit stressed that childcare providers urgently require an updated agreement to sustain the service and quality offered within childcare centres to align with the overall education ecosystem.

“Unfortunately, although discussions with the government have been initiated, no concrete proposals have been presented on the table,” he said.

The Chamber of SMEs echoed the CCPA’s concerns, noting the lack of progress and adding that the discussion “is far from having the momentum it needs.”

The two organisations said that although they have been given reassurance that this agreement is a top priority for the government, “actions are falling short of this promise.”

The CCPA and the SME Chamber said they continue to support Malta’s free childcare scheme, restating their commitment to quality and standards as “the top-most priority”.

The current service agreement, however, does not ensure sustainability within this important sector, they said.

Pointing out that childcare providers play a vital role in Malta’s social and economic framework, by enabling parents to contribute to the workforce, the CCPA and the Chamber of SME stressed that the “essential service” that must be supported appropriately and sustainably.

The organisations said they remain open to dialogue and urged the Government to act with urgency to reach a fair and sustainable agreement for the sector.