23/05/2007

Extra safety features for schoolbuses

Translink has today unveiled a fleet of new school buses that are fitted with extra safety measures.

Seatbelts and flashing parking lights to let the driver know children are getting off the bus are among the added safety features that will be included.

The Translink single-deck vehicles are being inspected by the Minister for Regional Development Conor Murphy and Education Minister Caitriona Ruane.

There are currently no laws forcing children under the age of 14 to use seatbelts on buses.

The Department of the Environment said they hoped a new law would be passed in the summer and the government said children should wear seatbelts where provided.

They also said children should not stand during journeys or be crowded three to a two-person seat.

Translink carries two thirds of Northern Ireland pupils who get a bus to school. Eight hundred buses are needed to do so.

The vehicles have been paid for by a £37 million fund allocated by the government last year.

(JM)

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