A proposed law requiring mandatory drug testing at road traffic collisions has reached the blue paper stage within the Justice Bill at Stormont, exactly one year after the death of Bangor teenager Jaidyn Rice. The 16-year-old was killed while walking on the West Circular Road carriageway on 8 July 2023.

The legislation, known as Jaidyn's Law, has received unanimous support from assembly members and is now under consideration. North Down MLA Stephen Dunne, who has worked with the family on the proposal, outlined its progress during a vigil held on the first anniversary of Jaidyn's death.

The family has met directly with Justice Minister Naomi Long and Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to press for the change. The campaign is also backed by North Down MP Alex Easton, UUP councillor Pete Wray, and former mayor Gillian McCollum.

Around 100 people attended the vigil, which walked down Clandeboye Road before gathering at the crash site. Family members, including mother Elaine Clarke, brother Kenley, and grandmother Judith Rice, led the group. They wore white t-shirts marked 'Jaidyn's Army' in pink lettering. The Bangor Protestant Boys Flute Band played and members of the DICE youth group, where Jaidyn had been a young leader, also took part.

At the roadside, a wooden heart memorial marked the spot. Wreaths were laid, and small pink flags were handed out for people to write messages or tributes before placing them at the site. The song played at Jaidyn's funeral was also broadcast.

Speaking at the gathering, Elaine Clarke said her daughter would have been humbled by the community's support. She urged those present to continue backing the fight for justice and to keep Jaidyn's memory alive.