Barney Mc Neany, Chief Executive - Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People
Peter Clarke will be very much missed by all in the Office of the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People. He was an inspiring man, a knowledgeable and courageous leader and his passion for children made him a feisty and powerful advocate on their behalf. This was coupled to great clarity in thought and speech and when he got the bit between his teeth he was a pleasure to listen to.

He was also a very compassionate person; I witnessed the concern and warmth he showed to my good friend Nigel Williams, also sadly no longer with us, when Nigel returned to work after he was first diagnosed with cancer.

And Peter was also great fun to be with, witty and great company. We were so glad he was able to make it to the British / Irish Children's Commissioner network meeting in November, helping to make the conference dinner an evening to remember.

I'll miss him and I wish the staff of the Welsh Commissioner's office well. I know from our experience that life in your office will be difficult in the weeks ahead but you all must keep focus on making children's rights a reality. Doing so will honour Peter's commitment and passion.