North Antrim MP Jim Allister has called for the immediate reinstatement of the yellow school bus service for Dunseverick Primary School. His remarks come in response to the Education Authority’s (EA) abrupt decision to withdraw the bus service, which has left parents and students in a state of confusion and concern.
Allister expressed his outrage, stating, “Rural schools are often treated as the poor relations in education. The arbitrary and sudden decision of the EA to withdraw the yellow school bus service from Dunseverick Primary School is a case in point.” With less than a week’s notice, families were informed that only an 8-seater taxi would be provided, a solution that fails to accommodate the needs of new pupils and those who had relied on the previous bus service.
The MP is taking action, making “strenuous representations” to the EA to reverse their decision. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive consultation with the school, urging the EA to conduct a proper audit of transport needs. “Getting children to school safely is an imperative. Removing their school bus is ridiculous,” he added.
The Principal of Dunseverick Primary School, Mrs L. Smyth, echoed Allister’s sentiments, highlighting the detrimental impact this decision has on local families. “On 25th August, just six days before children were due to return to school, I was informed by the EA that the yellow bus service would no longer be available, reportedly due to a decline in pupil numbers,” she explained.
Smyth expressed her deep concern about the uncertainty families now face regarding their children’s safe travel to school. While a private taxi is being offered for eligible students from the previous year, she noted that this arrangement does not account for new families seeking transport for their children starting school this year.
“This issue is not just about our school; it raises critical questions about equality of access and the ability of families to choose the school that best meets their children’s needs,” Smyth stated. “Every child entitled to transport should have reliable and sustainable access to it.”
To address this pressing issue, Smyth is urging all local political representatives—regardless of their party affiliation—to unite in support of the families affected by this decision. A public meeting has been organised for Tuesday, 8th September at 7.00 pm at Dunseverick Primary School, where parents, local representatives, and community members are encouraged to attend and voice their support for restoring the vital bus service.
Smyth also appealed to local and regional media to highlight the challenges faced by families in rural areas, stating, “Media coverage can play a vital role in ensuring that the voices of rural communities are heard.”
She concluded with a commitment to work collaboratively with the community, local representatives, and the EA to secure the return of the yellow school bus service. “Our families deserve certainty. Our children deserve fair access to education. Together, we call upon the Education Authority and our elected representatives to work with us to ensure that no child is left behind,” she urged.
For further discussions or inquiries, community members and stakeholders can reach out to Mrs. Smyth directly at lsmyth682@c2kni.net.
