More than 600 responses have been received as part of a public consultation on driver behaviour around school buses in Northern Ireland. A summary report is due to be published soon, the Department for Infrastructure has said.

The consultation is part of the Safer Journeys to School programme, established by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins following incidents involving children and buses. The programme is examining whether clearer rules for motorists when children are boarding or alighting could improve safety.

As part of the evidence-gathering, focus groups with children and young people are being held. Minister Kimmins recently visited Millennium Primary School in Saintfield, County Down, which is taking part in these groups.

The minister said it is vital to hear directly from children about their experiences and concerns. She acknowledged the work schools already do to keep pupils safe and added that the department will continue working with the Education Authority, Translink and the PSNI on practical steps.

The focus group feedback will help shape the programme as it develops. The consultation summary, based on more than 600 responses, is expected imminently.