Toronto Mayor David Miller accepted an offer of private money on Friday to open outdoor public skating rinks in time for the Christmas season.

MasterCard has offered to donate $160,000 to make sure city ice rinks open in December.

As part of a cost containment plan to deal with the city's $575-million shortfall for 2008, Miller initiated a series of cuts to city services, including delaying the opening of outdoor rinks until January.

"I told MasterCard we were very thankful for the offer and we'd be glad to accept it," Miller said.

"It does illustrate though the fundamental problem we face. You can't fund basic public services through a charitable donation."

The MasterCard offer means the rinks will now be open for Christmas, no matter what happens with the city budget crisis, which is still severe.

MasterCard is offering the money with no strings attached, meaning no advertising at the rinks.