The families of two girls who were killed when they were hit by cars after exiting school buses say planned law changes to make school journeys safer "will save lives".

The Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said she plans to introduce laws, which if they get executive approval, would include a ban on overtaking buses when people are getting on or off on 60mph rural roads.

Kimmins hopes to bring the legislative proposals to the Assembly this autumn.

At the moment there is no legal requirement anywhere in the UK for vehicles to stop when a school bus is picking up or dropping off pupils.

The Safer Journeys to School Programme follows several tragedies involving young people in recent years.

Caitlin Hogg was 13 years old when she was hit by a car after she got off her school bus in County Fermanagh, in December 2022.

Her father Bob says it's an important step in the right direction.

"As a family we've been actively engaged in discussions along with other affected families in urging for change," he said.

"So, it's very encouraging for us to see that there's been a huge response to the public consultation and also that Liz Kimmins is bringing a legislative proposal to the assembly."

The family of Caitlin-Rose McMullan are also heartened by the move.

Caitlin-Rose was 11 years old when she died after being hit by a car in March 2025. She was getting off a school bus, just metres from her home in Castledawson, County Londonderry.

Her mother Stella McGinn has campaigned for changes to the law since her death.

"It's probably an emotional day to know that 'yes we're finally here'."

She said this is something she has fought long and hard for.

"To get the country behind me and to have the country a safer place now for the kids going back to school is a good day.

"I have no doubt it's going to save children's lives and I'm doing this because I don't want any other parent living this nightmare that I'm living."

Speaking at the launch of the new campaign Kimmins thanked all the families who had lost loved ones who engaged with the department to get to this point.

"We have seen too many fatalities on our roads, particularly children going to and from school on school buses," she said.

"I do really hope that we can get support from my executive colleagues as well as the assembly, but I know there has been a huge appetite to see this legislation coming forward."

The 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 with getting on and off buses and when crossing the road.

Hogg says the adverts are just as important as proposed changes to the law.

"I'm equally encouraged that there is a public awareness campaign that is running this week ahead of the new school year," he said.

"But I think for us it's important to sustain that level of awareness.

"Legislation is one piece, but sustained awareness is critically important, as important as the legislation itself."