"Safer Journeys to School Programme progresses to crucial next steps" - Minister Kimmins
Date published:
The Safer Journey’s to School ( SJS) Programme aims to develop and deliver a range of measures to reduce fatalities and serious injuries involving schoolchildren when they are boarding or getting off buses.
Announcing progress on two key aspects of the programme today, Infrastructure Minister Kimmins said:
“As families prepare for a new school year, tens of thousands of children and young people will once again travel to and from school by bus. Road safety, and the safety of children and young people travelling to and from school, is a key priority for me as Infrastructure Minister.
“Sadly, tragic incidents in recent years involving children and young people at bus stops have highlighted the risks that can arise when pupils get on or off buses. These are moments when children and young people can be particularly vulnerable, especially if they need to cross the road and where factors such as traffic speed, visibility or road layout increase the risk of harm.
“Having considered the recent consultation findings, I have agreed a preferred legislative approach and intend to bring this to the Executive soon. Subject to Executive approval and the necessary legislative processes, I hope to bring forward legislative proposals to the Assembly this autumn to reduce the risk for children and young people travelling to and from school."
The Department for Infrastructure has also today launched a new road safety advertising campaign to raise awareness among drivers, school children and young people of the importance of staying safe around school buses to mark the start of the new school year.
The two-part campaign reminds drivers to slow down, stay alert and take extra care around buses, bus stops, and schoolchildren. It also encourages children and young people to be aware of the risks associated with boarding and leaving buses and when crossing the road. The campaign can be viewed here: www.sharetheroadtozero.com/safer-journeys-to-school
Minister Kimmins continued:
“This campaign is about helping to make journeys to and from school safer by reminding everyone of the need to take extra care around buses, particularly when children and young people are boarding, getting off, or crossing the road.
“I urge drivers, passengers, parents, carers and children and young people to pay attention to the campaign messages. By slowing down, staying alert and exercising greater caution around buses and bus stops, we can all play our part in helping to keep our children and young people safe."
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