THE Education authorities must do more to assist schools dealing with the impact of changes to minibus regulations which came into effect this week, Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan has said.
The Foyle MLA commented: “The Department for Infrastructure brought forward its changes to minibus licensing on Monday and already that is having an impact on schools, health workers and community organisations that rely on minibuses to deliver transport services.
“Many schools will find it difficult to deliver extra-curricular activities, school trips and other transportation services as a result of these changes.
“Despite the Department for Infrastructure stating that it has pre-consulted with key stakeholders, Sinn Féin does not believe that sufficient engagement has taken place with the Department of Education and the Education Authority otherwise schools would not find themselves in the situation they are currently facing.
“Schools need clarity on the regulations as well as support from them the education authorities and Sinn Féin will be raising these concerns with the leading official in the department when we meet him next week,” she added.