Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced her intention to introduce new legislation that will prohibit drivers from overtaking school buses while they are stopped to pick up or drop off passengers.

This significant move prioritises child safety on Northern Ireland's roads, following recent tragic incidents.

"Road safety is a priority for me, and recent tragic events have highlighted the need for all of us to be cognisant of the safety of children when they are getting on or off school buses," Minister Kimmins stated. She emphasised that while drivers are already encouraged to take extra care around buses through Departmental advertising campaigns, strengthening the law is a crucial step towards improving safety for children. The Minister shared that she has met with grieving families and heard their heartbreaking stories, which has reinforced her commitment to prevent further devastation. "Too many families have had their world shattered by receiving the worst possible news after a loved one has set out on a routine journey," she added.

While the legislation is being prepared, Minister Kimmins urged all road users to take immediate action, including slowing down, avoiding mobile phones, and discussing shared road safety responsibilities with family and friends.

In addition to the outright ban on overtaking, Minister Kimmins confirmed that measures will be put in place to reinforce existing policy regarding the proper use of signs and lights on buses transporting children to and from school. Drivers who fail to operate these warning lights as required will face fixed penalty notices, with the intention that these new penalties will be enforceable by the beginning of the new school term in September.

The Department for Infrastructure is also implementing other road safety measures, including the expansion of 20mph zones around schools and progressing the Graduated Driver Licensing scheme.