Inset: North Antrim MLA Sian Mulholland
Sian Mulholland MLA has written to the Department for Infrastructure to highlight serious concerns over the safety of roads around rural schools in North Antrim.
This follows reports from parents about several near-miss incidents during recent icy conditions due to the lack of gritting on rural roads in the North Antrim area.
Parents have voiced their fears about the risks posed to children, particularly during the school run, with some questioning the prioritisation of rural routes under the current gritting policy.
Speaking on the issue, Sian Mulholland MLA said:
"The safety of children and families traveling to and from school should be a top priority. The reports of near misses around some schools this morning are deeply concerning. I have raised these issues directly with DFI Northern Division to seek clarity on their gritting policies and ensure that rural communities are not overlooked during winter weather."
Ms. Mulholland acknowledged the pressures on the roads network during the colder months but stressed the importance of proactive measures to protect rural road users.
"While I understand the demands placed on the Department during periods of extreme weather, the risks highlighted by parents contacting me from Loughgiel, Armoy and Ballycastle this morning require urgent attention.
“I have asked DFI for an update on their current gritting strategy and any planned improvements for rural routes, particularly those serving schools."