General powers of the CommissionerN.I.
8.—(1) The Commissioner may undertake, commission or provide financial or other assistance for research or educational activities concerning the rights or best interests of children and young persons or the exercise of his functions.
(2) The Commissioner may, after consultation with such bodies or persons as he thinks appropriate, issue guidance on best practice in relation to any matter concerning the rights or best interests of children and young persons.
(3) The Commissioner may, for the purposes of any of his functions, conduct such investigations as he considers necessary or expedient.
(4) If the Commissioner so determines, Schedule 3 shall apply in relation to an investigation conducted by the Commissioner for the purposes of his functions under Article 7(2) or (3).
(5) The Commissioner may—
(a)compile information concerning the rights or best interests of children and young persons;
(b)provide advice or information on any matter concerning the rights or best interests of children and young persons;
(c)publish any matter concerning the rights or best interests of children and young persons, including—
(i)the outcome of any research or activities mentioned in paragraph (1);
(ii)the outcome of any investigations conducted under paragraph (3);
(iii)any advice provided by the Commissioner.
(6) The Commissioner may make representations or recommendations to any body or person about any matter concerning the rights or best interests of children and young persons.