The deadline for submitting comments on the Children Bill has been extended by the new Education Minister, Eddie Teare.

The Department of Education put the proposed legislation out to public consultation in February, with an original closing date of April 16.

However, Mr Teare says that, with the major changes in government, his move to the department and the change in departmental membership, it is appropriate to extend the period to the end of the month.

The 31 clause bill is designed to strengthen support and protection for children and young people, particularly those who are considered vulnerable.

Among other measures, it would introduce a children's commissoner to promote and safeguard their rights.

Former Education Minister Anne Craine has described the legislation as a major milestone in a move to more closely integrate and improve children's services in the Isle of Man.

The proposals are in line with the recommendations of the independent commission of inquiry which followed the deaths of two young people on the Island, in February 2002.

However, concerns have been raised that the bill is overly intrusive, as it proposes the creation of a database of the Island's 18,000 youngsters.

Critics say potentially minor problems could be flagged-up against a child's name.

It has also been claimed the proposals show a lack of trust in parents, on the part of government.

Copies of the consultation document can be downloaded from www.gov.im/consultations