Government is creating 160 new childcare spaces across the province, with a specific focus on care for the children of health care workers.

All spaces will be operated by the YMCA. Three sites are under development in St. John’s, Corner Brook and Bonavista.

Government says initiatives to create similar spaces in other areas of the province, including those in rural and remote areas, are forthcoming.

Premier Andrew Furey says the spaces will include extended hours to accommodate the schedules of health care professionals. The new sites will not be 24 hours yet, but he does note that is the long-term goal.

He says the new sites will be open and operational in six months.