New School Bus Safety Rules Proposed in NI

0:00On March 26, 11-year-old Caitlin Rose McMullen died in March 2025 when a car struck her as she stepped off a school bus near her. Home outside Castle Dawson, her mother Stella McGinn has pushed hard for new safety rules to prevent such tragedies. Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins faced criticism for delays on promise legislation, but she launched a public consultation on Thursday with two. The first bans overtaking a stop school bus in risky spots where kids could be in danger. The second tackles cars passing buses from the front or other angles during pickup and drop off times. Stella McGinn calls the move a mix of relief and pain, since better rules might have saved her daughter. She's urging parents and others to join the consultation and get the laws passed before the current assembly term ends. The proposals also explore ideas like cutting speed limits near schools during busy hours and adding special warning lights to buses. Officials say these would build on existing traffic laws without replacing them.

1:04Minister Kimmins praised the campaigning parents for their strength and reminded drivers to slow down, stop if needed, and stay alert around school. Buses to keep kids safe on the roads.