YES - Dawn Shaw, deputy director children's services, NCH NorthernIreland
But only where it is someone who can demonstrate a long-standingcommitment to equality, public service, and, above all, the needs andconcerns of children and young people. It is these qualities - togetherwith an ability to listen and engage children and young people - thatqualifies Patricia Lewsley. While there is always the danger of "party"bias, the politician's advantage is knowing how to use the system andpolitical process to get things done.
NO - Graeme Cooke, researcher, Institute for Public Policy Research Notnecessarily, but being a politician shouldn't be a bar to the role.
The important thing is what role children's commissioners should fulfilin our society. Children can't vote and have little power or voice inour political system. So, alongside a range of qualities, commissionersmust be strong and credible advocates for children and young people -regularly seen and widely known. This means someone with the experienceand charisma to raise awareness of the needs and interests ofchildren.
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