The First Minister has announced her intention to appoint Maree Todd as Minister for Childcare and Early Years. Subject to approval by the Parliament and Her Majesty the Queen, Ms Todd will begin to undertake some Ministerial duties immediately.
The First Minister said: “I am really pleased that Maree has agreed to take up the post of Minister for Childcare and Early Years. Improving the life chances of children and young people is at the heart of this Government’s agenda, so this is a crucial post. We want to make Scotland the best place in the world to grow up and are taking forward a range of actions to achieve this. The importance of early years development simply cannot be overstated, which is why my government is putting so much emphasis on doing all we can to ensure youngsters across Scotland can reach their full potential.
“I know that Maree is passionate about this work and I look forward to seeing her lead this agenda.”
Ms Todd said: “I am honoured to be asked to carry out this important role. The early years are so crucial in shaping Scotland’s next generation. A lot of great work has already been done and I am really looking forward to continuing to take forward policies like the Baby Box, the commitment to almost doubling entitlement to free early learning and childcare hours and leading celebrations for the Year of Young People 2018. I am relishing getting started and helping make a difference to the lives of all children in Scotland.”
Commenting on the appointment Maggie Simpson, Chief Executive of SCMA said: “On behalf of our membership we welcome the appointment of Ms Todd as the Minister for Childcare and Early Years. The expansion of Early Learning and Childcare by 2020 will undoubtedly transform the lives of young people and their families throughout Scotland and there are challenges ahead to ensure its successful implementation. We look forward to working with the Minister to overcome these challenges so that the childminding sector remains sustainable and to ensure the best start in life for children in Scotland.”