Kimmins joins pupils to welcome 20mph zone at St Oliver’s Primary School, Cullyhanna
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Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins joined pupils at St Oliver’s Primary School in Carrickrovaddy, Cullyhanna this morning as a new temporary 20mph speed limit signs were switched on outside the school.
St Oliver’s Primary School is one of 40 schools in tranche 3 of this scheme, which once all fully operational will bring the total number of schools with part time 20mph speed limits across the north to 273.
Speaking as the new lights were switched on Minister Kimmins said:
“I have been clear that road safety is a priority for me and the safety around schools is paramount as children and young people are one of the most vulnerable groups on our roads.
“This further tranche represents additional significant investment and has a focus on improving safety at rural schools, which are often located on roads where the national speed limit applies. The volume of traffic is clearly evident at St Oliver’s today and the introduction of the 20mph will help to slow that traffic down at the start and end of the school day as pupils arrive and leave to go home.”
Minister Kimmins had the opportunity to meet with the pupils and staff of St Oliver’s to hear at first hand the benefits the new schemes will bring for the school community.
The Principal of St Oliver’s PS, Mrs Donaghy added:
“We are delighted to see the introduction of the new 20mph zone at St Oliver’s Primary School. The safety of our pupils is always our top priority, particularly during the busy times at the start and end of the school day. We hope this initiative will make a real difference in creating a safer environment for our whole school community.”
Minister Kimmins concluded:
“This is just one of a number of initiatives to make our roads safer. I have asked my officials to identify other schools which could benefit from the 20mph limit and that work is continuing.
“My Department is also taking forward a review on a number of speed related matters, including a review of speed limits and consideration on the use of permanent 20mph zones.
“In addition I have also held a consultation on Safer Journeys to School to ensure the safety of children travelling to school by bus.
“Both these significant consultations have closed recently and my Department will be studying the responses carefully as we determine the next steps.
“Of course I will also continue to reinforce the road safety message for all road users and have recently committed additional funding to run further advertising campaigns to focus on general driver behaviour and motorcyclist safety.”
The roll out is continuing with all 40 schools expected to be operational by the start of the new school term in September.
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins is joined by Katie and Mick, P7 pupils at St Oliver’s Primary School, Carrickrovaddy, Cullyhanna as new temporary 20mph speed limit signs are switched on outside the school to improve road safety for pupils, parents and staff.
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