Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins launched a public consultation on Thursday to improve school bus safety in Northern Ireland. The proposals include making it illegal to overtake a stationary bus in clearly defined dangerous circumstances.

The consultation follows the deaths of two girls hit by cars after leaving school buses. Caitlin Hogg, aged 13, died in December 2022 in Kinawley, County Fermanagh. Caitlin-Rose McMullan, aged 11, died in March 2025 near her home in Castledawson, County Londonderry.

Bob Hogg, Caitlin Hogg's father, contacted politicians after her death to seek legislation on school bus safety. Stella McGinn, Caitlin-Rose McMullan's mother, joined the effort after learning of the similar incident.

Both families have campaigned for changes to require other vehicles to stop when school buses pick up or drop off passengers. Currently no such legal requirement exists in the UK.

SDLP councillor Denise Johnston supported the families' campaign. Mid Ulster Council passed a motion last year calling for law changes around bus safety.

Liz Kimmins stated that recent tragic incidents involving children highlighted risks when passengers board or exit buses. Police data records almost 700 young people aged four to 18 killed or seriously injured on Northern Ireland roads during school term time since 2020.

The consultation remains open until May 21. It precedes debate in Stormont committees and the Northern Ireland Assembly. An assembly election is scheduled for May next year.