A children's commissioner for Northern Ireland is expected to be appointed during the summer.

Government sources revealed on Tuesday that the commissioner will have greater powers than his or her counterpart in Wales, which is the only part of the UK to have already appointed someone to the role.

These powers include the right of entry to certain places which look after children and the ability to take legal action.

The order providing for the creation of the commissioner's post is to be debated in the House of Commons on Thursday. It is expected to become law next month.

The principles of inclusion, equality, human rights and citizenship are central to what we do Denis Haughey

Officials have said they hope to attract an international field of applicants for the job, which will be advertised in the spring.

A panel of 12 young people will play a role in helping to select the successful candidate.

The cash earmarked for the commissioner is �1.5m in the first year of the office rising to �2m in succeeding years.

The commissioner will serve a four year term in office, attracting a salary of about �70,000.

Northern Ireland's power-sharing executive announced plans for a children's commissioner in 2001.

Public views

A consultation document was published and members of the public were invited to make their views known.

Former junior ministers at the office of first minister and deputy first minister, Denis Haughey and Dermot Nesbitt, launched the paper.

"The executive wants to ensure that it is at the leading edge of best practice in protecting children's rights," said Mr Haughey.

"The principles of inclusion, equality, human rights and citizenship are central to what we do, and we are committed to ensuring that these principles are applied to the children and young people.''

Mr Nesbitt said the commissioner would promote and protect children's rights and ensure children had a voice in local government.

There have been calls to appoint a children's commissioner in England.