Niall McCracken from BBC News NI has shed light on the need for new laws to enhance school bus safety in Northern Ireland. This urgent call for action follows the tragic death of an 11-year-old girl, Caitlin-Rose McMullan, who was fatally struck by a car as she exited a school bus in Castledawson, County Londonderry. The loss of Caitlin has deeply impacted the community, with St Pius X College in Magherafelt describing her as a beloved student who always had a smile on her face.
Currently, in Northern Ireland, there are no legal requirements for vehicles to halt when a school bus is picking up or dropping off students. Conversely, in parts of the United States, surpassing a stationary school bus is considered a motoring offense. This is accompanied by safety measures such as retractable stop signs on buses, which illuminate amber or red lights when children are disembarking.
Recently, Mid Ulster District Council deliberated a motion urging for the introduction of similar safety measures in Northern Ireland. The motion, proposed by SDLP Mid Ulster cllr Malachy Quinn, is a response to prevent future tragedies like the one involving Caitlin-Rose McMullan. SDLP cllr Denise Johnston seconded the motion, expressing concern that Caitlin’s death may not be the last if necessary actions are not taken promptly.
Furthermore, the council has pledged to correspond with the minister for infrastructure and the minister of education, emphasizing the urgency for new legislation focused on addressing school bus safety concerns. In response to these developments, the Department of Education and the Department for Infrastructure have expressed their commitment to enhancing road safety, particularly around school buses. They are exploring various measures, as safety on the roads, especially for young individuals, remains a top priority for the government
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
