Dublin City Council is seeking experienced childcare providers to run its first dircetly managed facility.
Deirdre Ni Raghallaigh, the council's deputy area manager, said a premises for at least 40 children in the north inner city could be ready to open in the autumn as part of a three-year pilot project.
"While we have been heavily involved in planning, building, facilitating and supporting community-run crèches, playgroups and other childcare facilities in all parts of the city for many years, this is the first time we are taking on the direct management and operational funding for a childcare facility," she said.
"It will allow the council to assess all the issues involved in directly managing and financing high quality affordable childcare facilities."
The building at Buckingham Street, which was acquired and renovated by the council at a cost of €1.1 million, is now available and has room for 40 or more children.
During the pilot period the council will subvent the cost of sending a child to the crèche by funding the difference between an affordable weekly rate (around €110) and the operational running costs (up to €200 depending on the age of the child).
Dublin City Council will also be looking for a provider to run another new crèche in Liberty Corner off James Joyce Street, due to be completed and equipped later this year. It has a further 50 places and would be due to open in 2006.
PA