[12 December 2007] - The Welsh Assembly Government has today announced that Keith Towler will be the new Children's Commissioner for Wales. At the moment Mr Towler is Wales Programme Director for Save the Children, and he will start work as Wales' children's champion in March 2008.

He was interviewed by young people - including members of the office of the Commissioner's advisory groups - and by a more formal selection panel. Two young people also sat on the formal panel along with the Minister for Children, Jane Hutt, and Assembly members from other political parties.

Keith Towler said: "I'm really excited about being Wales' new Children's Commissioner and am looking forward to the many challenges that lie ahead. I'm here to take full account of the views of children and young people in Wales and will make sure that their voices are clearly heard".

The Children’s Commissioner for Wales was established by statute in 2001 and is an independent organisation to safeguard and promote the rights and welfare of children and young people.

The appointment procedure was conducted by Welsh Assembly Government in accordance with their policy on public appointments and the Nolan principles.

Young people, including members of the Commissioner’s Advisory Groups, were involved in the recruitment process.

Further information

• European Network of Ombudspersons for Children (ENOC)
• CRIN's information page on Children's Commissioners

Organisation Contact Details:

Children’s Commissioner for Wales - UK
Oystermouth House
Phoenix Way
Swansea Enterprise Park
Llansamlet
Swansea SA7 9FS

Tel: +44 1792 765 600
Email: post@childcomwales.org.uk
Website: www.childcomwales.org.uk

Last updated 12/12/2007 13:38:23