The power sharing executive in the North have introduced a new Bill which will create a Commissioner for Children.
Introducing the Bill, Junior Minister Denis Haughey maintained that it was the most important piece of children's legislation for 15 years.
The new office has been the result of cross party committee discussions on children's affairs.
Delegates at the assembly insisted that the new role would be a champion for young people in Ireland in maintaining the rights of children.
In addition, the commissioner can carry out investigations of any wrong doing against young people.
One of the main roles of the children's commission will be to protect those who are vulnerable.