Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has called on Education Minister Julia Gillard for her promised statement on the future of ABC Learning Centres, saying an announcement from its receiver simply raises more questions over the future of hundreds of the centres.

Receiver McGrathNicol yesterday announced that 386 of the company’s 1042 centres are “subject to further operational review”, with no guarantee that they would remain open in 2009.

“For thousands of parents and thousands of workers, yesterday’s announcement just heightened their anxiety,” said Senator Hanson-Young.

“Forty per cent of ABC Learning Centres in this country are in doubt, which is not a reassuring statistic whatsoever.

“The figures released show that in New South Wales, for example, half of the centres have a big question mark hanging over their future.

“That’s not the sort of announcement that families are looking for with only a few weeks to go until Christmas holidays.”

Senator Hanson-Young called on Minister Gillard to bring forward the ministerial statement she has been saying she will make.

“For weeks now Minister Gillard has said that she and her team are preparing a statement explaining what will happen to all ABC Learning Centres once the Government’s $22 million prop-up expires on December 31,” she said.

“Parents and workers are looking for direction and leadership as to what will happen to their centre, as New Year’s Eve quickly approaches.

“It’s time for the Government to put forward some answers now.”

Senator Hanson-Young said that the ABC Learning situation underscored the importance of the upcoming Senate Inquiry into childcare in Australia, which was supported by the Senate this week.

“It’s clear that, now more than ever, we need to get the key childcare providers around a table to share their experience and expertise and promote solutions,” she said.

“Those on the ground, caring for our kids and talking to parents every day, are best qualified to map the way forward for quality, sustainable childcare.”

Media contact: Gemma Clark on 0427 604 760