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15/10/2001
Children to have their say in appointing Commissioner
Ministers from the Northern Ireland Executive have urged young people to have their say in helping to shape the role of the Children’s Commissioner.
A new Commissioner for Children is to be appointed by Stormont before the end of the year that will act as a voice for children and young people up to the age of 18 or 21 for those who have been looked after by public authorities.
Speaking at the National Children’s Bureau’s Second Annual Conference, in Antrim, Minister in the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) Denis Haughey said: “The Commissioner for Children will act as a champion for all children and young people and be a strong independent voice speaking up for their rights and needs. They will advise the authorities and challenge them when necessary - be a watchdog and an engine for change - someone outside of government to help join up of policy across government departments and statutory agencies.
“We want to hear the views of children and young people on our proposals, to make sure they best meet their needs.”
Dermot Nesbitt from the OFMDFM added: “We recognise children as citizens in their own right and we must ensure that the conditions exist to enable them to enjoy a happy, safe and secure childhood, to enable them to grow into secure, confident and resourceful people.
“Young people must therefore have confidence in the Commissioner and this can be achieved by taking their views on the role and responsibility into account. The consultation process gives them an ideal opportunity to let us know what they think a Commissioner for Children could and should do for all children in Northern Ireland.” (AMcE)
A new Commissioner for Children is to be appointed by Stormont before the end of the year that will act as a voice for children and young people up to the age of 18 or 21 for those who have been looked after by public authorities.
Speaking at the National Children’s Bureau’s Second Annual Conference, in Antrim, Minister in the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) Denis Haughey said: “The Commissioner for Children will act as a champion for all children and young people and be a strong independent voice speaking up for their rights and needs. They will advise the authorities and challenge them when necessary - be a watchdog and an engine for change - someone outside of government to help join up of policy across government departments and statutory agencies.
“We want to hear the views of children and young people on our proposals, to make sure they best meet their needs.”
Dermot Nesbitt from the OFMDFM added: “We recognise children as citizens in their own right and we must ensure that the conditions exist to enable them to enjoy a happy, safe and secure childhood, to enable them to grow into secure, confident and resourceful people.
“Young people must therefore have confidence in the Commissioner and this can be achieved by taking their views on the role and responsibility into account. The consultation process gives them an ideal opportunity to let us know what they think a Commissioner for Children could and should do for all children in Northern Ireland.” (AMcE)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
