Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young says the Federal Government has let down parents who are looking for answers on the future of their ABC Learning childcare centre.

Today in Question Time Senator Hanson-Young asked Senator Kim Carr, the Minister representing Education Minister Julia Gillard, when the Government would reveal its contingency plans for those ABC Learning centres with a doubtful outlook in 2009.

“Once again, the Government has refused to come forth with information that would provide some certainty and reassurance for mums, dads and childcare workers,” said Senator Hanson-Young.

“Today is the last day Minister Gillard has to level with the Parliament about her contingency plan, which has been touted as being in the works since October.

“This is unacceptable.

“We’re now to the point of having only eleven working days left until many childcare centres shut up shop for Christmas.

“The Government’s refusal to open the lines of communication over the future of an essential service for so many families is only heightening anxiety for parents and workers.

“I urge the Government to enlighten parents, workers and parliamentarians alike as to what its plan is once its $22 million prop-up expires on New Year’s Eve.”