Peter Clarke: Examination of issues involved

Mr Owen - who wrote the secondary school-based S4C drama series Pam Fi Duw? - was found dead in a caravan in a Porthcawl holiday park after failing to show in court to face charges of indecent assault against boys.

The 50-year-old was facing allegations of sexually assaulting pupils over 10 years at secondary school Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen, Pontypridd, where he had taught drama until 1992.

Mr Clarke said his inquiry would not look at whether Mr Owen had been guilty or innocent of the claims, but at the lessons to be learned to ensure children are protected from harm.

The commissioner said he would invite former pupils of Mr Owen to come forward and make their representations.

Mr Clarke, who was appointed to his role earlier in 2000, will use his powers under the Children's Commissioner for Wales Regulations 2001 to carry out the examination.

We may hopefully allow all involved to move on, having learned what we need to from these sad events

Peter Clarke, Children's Commissioner for Wales

"I have been approached by a number of people about this, including some representatives of those who were John Owen's pupils," said Mr Clarke.

"I want this examination to take all the relevant facts into account.

"I would like to hear from anyone directly involved. I will announce how people may do this when the terms of reference are made public."

Mr Clarke added: "We may hopefully allow all involved to move on, having learned what we need to from these sad events."

However, his investigation will not start until next March as Mr Clarke is building up a staff team who will help him in his task.

The circumstances surrounding Mr Owen's time at Rhydfelen have polarised sharp opinion, with critics claiming there should be a public inquiry into the affair.

Parents complained

Mr Owen left Ysgol Rhydfelen in 1991 amid complaints about his teaching methods.

On leaving, Mr Owen penned the Pam Fi Duw? novel, which was turned into a six-series television drama.

The mother who complained told BBC Wales: "It's time that someone looked into the situation that was occurring when he was made to resign; it was brushed under the carpet."

Solicitor Lynda Roberts, who represents seven complainants, said the clients gave a "guarded welcome" to the commissioner's probe, but called for them to be included in his investigation.

"After his death, it is now impossible for guilt to be proved either way," she said.

"But there is still a danger - it's important children can speak to someone in authority."