Speaking following the engagement, Carla Lockhart MP said:

“Earlier today I engaged with the Divisional Roads Manager, Cindy Tilford, to discuss road safety, ongoing gritting operations and grit salt supply during the current spell of inclement weather. I want to acknowledge that Cindy is a good manager who is clearly endeavouring to improve our roads network, particularly during what has been an extremely challenging period.

“A key focus of our discussion was the condition of rural roads and the gritting of rural routes, especially in light of the recent bus incident at Esky. Thankfully there were no children on board at the time, but this will have been a very traumatic experience for the driver, and my thoughts are with him.

“This incident once again highlights the reality faced by rural communities. Roads across the Bann Foot area routinely experience terrible conditions, yet rural dwellers and rural roads are too often treated as the poor cousin. Far too many of these routes are left off gritting schedules altogether, despite being relied upon daily for school transport, public transport and access to essential services.

“I made it very clear that I am standing up for rural dwellers, particularly those living in areas such as the Bann Foot, who continue to endure horrendous road conditions during severe weather. Roads used by public and school transport must be treated as a priority, regardless of outdated road classifications. The current gritting arrangements and road classifications are antiquated and no longer fit for purpose.

“We also discussed grit salt availability, following concerns raised yesterday. I have been assured that these issues were largely due to the Christmas period and the need to replenish stocks as depots reopened. I am pleased to confirm that significant deliveries have been made today, with thousands of tonnes of grit salt delivered.

“At present, the priority remains the gritting of approved routes, with the replenishment of grit piles and roadside salt boxes expected to recommence from tomorrow. This will take time, but I will continue to press the Department for Infrastructure and follow this closely to ensure rural communities are not left behind.

“Finally, I want to place on record my thanks to those who are out working in truly horrendous conditions, gritting and salting our roads and pavements. Credit where credit is due. Their efforts to keep our communities safe deserve recognition.”