Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has launched a public consultation on proposals to prohibit drivers from overtaking stationary buses in dangerous circumstances. The measures target risks to passengers, especially children boarding or alighting from school buses.

The consultation follows the death of 11-year-old Caitlin-Rose McMullan in March 2025. She was struck by a car after getting off a school bus near her home in Castledawson. Her mother, Stella McGinn, has campaigned for legislation to improve safety around school buses.

Kimmins stated that recent tragedies involving children at bus stops underline vulnerabilities when passengers cross roads, particularly where traffic speed, visibility or road layout heighten risks. The proposals include rules against overtaking stationary buses when passengers face harm, plus options to address vehicles passing buses from the opposite direction during boarding and alighting.

Additional measures will cover education, engineering and enforcement to protect children travelling to and from school. Kimmins urged drivers to slow down, stop if needed and stay vigilant near buses.

She praised parents who lost children in similar incidents for their campaigning efforts. The consultation remains open until May 21, 2026.