The NDP would create 275,000 child-care spaces across the country over the next four years, Leader Jack Layton said on Monday. Layton suggested a national system based on the Quebec model be created. The party would spend $1...

The NDP would create 275,000 child-care spaces across the country over the next four years, Leader Jack Layton said on Monday. Layton suggested a national system based on the Quebec model be created. The party would spend $1.8 billion in the first year of the system and increase that amount by $250 million a year over the next three years. The NDP calculates that would be enough money to create 200,000 child-care spaces in the first year, and 25,000 more each year following. NDP Leader Jack Layton sings along with Ronit Patel during a visit to Parkdale Beach Child Care Centre, Toronto, Monday, Dec. 12. (CP Photo/Chuck Stoody)