The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said:
“I welcome today’s announcement from the Infrastructure Minister that she intends to introduce legislation to prevent the overtaking of school buses when children are boarding or disembarking at bus stops.
This is a vital step in protecting our children as they travel to and from school. Far too often, we have seen reckless behaviour around school buses that puts young lives at risk. In my own constituency of Fermanagh and South Tyrone, we have experienced the devastating impact of such tragedies. Families have been left heartbroken by the loss of children. It was particularly poignant to see families who have suffered such loss present at today’s announcement. Their persistence have helped bring this issue to the fore, and they deserve our deepest thanks.
DUP MLAs have consistently raised this matter in the Infrastructure Committee, pressing for urgent action. We have listened to the voices of campaigners and families, and we welcome the fact that these concerns have now been acknowledged through this proposed legislation.
This is about protecting lives. A moment’s impatience on the road can result in lifelong consequences. I look forward to working constructively through the Committee to ensure that this legislation progresses without delay and delivers real protection for schoolchildren across Northern Ireland.”