Fine Gael is to publish a childcare policy document at its national conference in Co Cork on Saturday.
Over 3,000 delegates are expected to attend the biennial event which will end with a keynote address by leader Enda Kenny.
The Government is expected to announce a substantial childcare package in next month's Budget and Fine Gael believes it will be a key issue in the forthcoming General Election campaign.
Social and Family Affairs spokesman David Stanton will unveil the party's childcare policy document in the Green Glens Arena in Millstreet on Saturday afternoon.
The conference is the first since the party's successes in the local and European elections and the Meath by-election.
The location of the conference is also seen as a strategic decision to raise party profile within Co Cork as well as neighbouring counties of Kerry and Limerick.
Six key conference sessions will focus on agriculture, healthcare, consumers, childcare, crime and alternative energy.
Guest speakers include Dermott Jewell, chief executive of the Consumers' Association of Ireland and Small Firms Association chief, Pat Delaney. Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Catherine Byrne and Irish Wind Energy Association chairman Tim Cowhig will also be present.
PA