British Columbia and Western Provinces End Twice-Yearly Time Change
Millions of Canadians are leaving their clocks untouched this weekend while other regions continue the twice-yearly ritual of turning time backward. Jurisdictions across Western Canada are abandoning the traditional biannual shift, adopting permanent daylight saving time instead of falling back.
British Columbia recently selected daylight saving time as its standard setting, meaning residents will not roll their clocks back this weekend. Alberta, Manitoba, and western sections of Ontario are also entering the winter season on daylight saving time for the first time.
Public Support Clashes with Health Warnings
Experts speaking to Canadian media outlets support ending the twice-yearly shift but criticize the permanent adoption of daylight saving time. Wendy Hall, an emeritus professor at the University of British Columbia, stated that winter time is the healthier choice because it aligns better with the human circadian rhythm that regulates sleep.
During the darkest winter months, the sun will not rise in southern cities like Vancouver and Calgary until around 9:00 a.m. In Edmonton, located 300 kilometers north of Calgary, sunrise will occur near 10:00 a.m. Experts warn that permanent daylight saving time creates a social jet lag, leaving workers and students with a sleep deficit when morning alarms ring.
Quebec Considers Time Change Reform
The premier of Quebec announced this week an intention to end the time shift, though officials have not yet decided whether to choose permanent summer or winter time. The province plans to consult experts before making a final selection. Meanwhile, Ontario will only stop with the winter and summer time changes if neighboring regions—including Manitoba, Quebec, and the U.S. state of New York—enact identical policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Western Canadian provinces choose daylight saving time over winter time?
Experts fear that politicians yielded to public preference for extra evening daylight, outweighing the health arguments.
Who will be most affected by dark winter mornings?
Teenagers face particular challenges due to their natural biological rhythms, alongside concerns regarding traffic safety when it is darker in the mornings.
What are the conditions for Ontario to end the time change?
Ontario will only stop adjusting clocks if surrounding jurisdictions such as Manitoba, Quebec, and New York adopt the same timekeeping framework.
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