After listening to the views of Manitobans on seasonal time changes, the Manitoba government has decided to remain on daylight saving time (DST) permanently.
“We heard from Manitobans loud and clear – no more changing the clocks in Manitoba,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “Permanent daylight saving time is good for our health, good for business and good for parents. For families, especially those with young kids, that one-hour shift can disrupt sleep and routines for days. This change means one less adjustment families have to deal with each spring and fall. That’s why this November, your clocks won’t be changing.”
This change means Manitobans’ clocks will not revert to standard time on Nov. 1. Manitoba joins several other provinces and territories that have adopted or are moving toward a permanent time including British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Alberta and Saskatchewan.
In May, Manitobans were asked to share their views on the future of time changes and nearly 72,000 votes were submitted. A total of 92 per cent of Manitobans surveyed wanted to see an end to seasonal time changes. A majority of Manitobans (58 per cent) preferred to stay on permanent DST, while 34 per cent voted to eliminate the time change but stay on standard time.
The Manitoba government is working closely with organizations, businesses and industry partners as it works to implement permanent DST, the premier noted.
“Permanent daylight saving time is good for Manitoba businesses,” said Loren Remillard, president and CEO, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. “More daylight in the evening means more opportunity for restaurants, retailers, farmers, and communities across our province to make the most of the day. Ending the twice-a-year clock change reduces friction for companies working across provincial borders and offers all Manitobans greater predictability and stability. The Winnipeg Chamber welcomes this practical step to make doing business in our province a little easier.”
An analysis by Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care concluded that eliminating time changes would be better for population health than maintaining the status quo.
