A charity leader said she looked forward to supporting the Government’s “groundbreaking vision” for a Children’s Commission.

Kelly Hunt, the executive director of the Coalition for the Protection of Children, was speaking as a replacement for the Child Care Placement Board takes shape.

Tinee Furbert, the Minister of Social Development and Seniors, said this week that information about the commission was expected to be announced “probably, within the next month”.

Ms Hunt said: “We are very pleased that the Government is supportive of a Children’s Commission.

“Accountability for the best interests of the child must be ensured through internationally recognised standards of care so we are happy that they are committed to this for Bermuda’s future.

“There are several reasons to support a Children’s Commission; it is much needed for a child’s right to participate in their own welfare for example.

“We look forward to working together to support this groundbreaking vision.”

Ms Furbert said that the commission’s primary role will be to “advocate for the children in care by fostering a platform where children’s voices will be heard”.

She added: “I’m actually happy about the progress that we have made in regards to replacing the Child Care Placement Board – particularly giving the voice of children in care a priority within the new body that we are looking to put forward to the country.”

The minister said: “The Government remains committed to strengthening legislation that impacts our children in care to guarantee that their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.”