The government of Ontario says it is putting $20 million in a fund to help daycare centres install concrete barriers in parking lots, following the death of a toddler after a vehicle crashed into a daycare in Richmond Hill. The province says it will also conduct a review of design regulations for childcare facilities for more longer-term safety solutions.
The toddler and another child were taken to hospital after the incident at the First Roots Early Education Academy in September, according to York Police Service. Five other children and three adults were also injured.
Minister of Education Paul Calandra called the incident a “heartbreaking tragedy” for the community.
“In Liam’s honour, we are taking steps to support child care operators and families with measures that offer greater peace of mind and added protection for children,” he said.
The fund will help those centres, often operating in spaces like places of worship, retail settings, public buildings, and homes, to install the concrete barriers for an “extra layer of protection,” according to the provincial government.
Applications will be accepted in 2026, the government said, adding more details would be provided to childcare centres in the new year.
The government said the fund was part of its “safety support” offered while it examines long-term safety requirements for the sector.
It said the province would consult with sector and technical experts on recommendations that would update the design guidelines and regulations for childcare centres. Some of the factors under consideration are safeguarding indoor and outdoor play spaces, and reducing risks to children.
The Association of Day Care Operators of Ontario (ADCO) says while it appreciates the government funds, it is concerned new regulations won’t solve the problem.
Executive director for ADCO Andrea Hannen said the vehicular risk to childcare centres is beyond the scope of the Education Ministry.
“Most landlords are not regulated by the Ministry of Education, so it’s important to recognize that this isn’t an issue that can be resolved by putting new regulations on licensed child care centres,” she said.
Hannen said the solution would need to include municipal planning, traffic calming, and bylaws.
“Children are part of the equation in a variety of businesses, from restaurants to hair salons, dental offices and so forth. It is not unreasonable for parents who have their children with them in these settings to expect safety there as well,” she said.
Charges Laid
Police said a vehicle hit the daycare building at Yonge Street and Nottingham Drive around 3 p.m. on Sept. 10.The incident did not appear to be deliberate, according to police. They said the driver, who was a man in his 70s, was arrested.
He has since been charged with dangerous operation causing death, and two counts of dangerous operation causing bodily harm.
Police said that the vehicle was in the parking lot before it went through the window of the daycare. There were 96 children in multiple rooms at the centre at the time.
