Quebec debates axing Daylight Saving Time
Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative
QUEBEC – Quebec’s Ministry of Justice has launched a public consultation on the future of Daylight Saving Time (DST), inviting residents across the province to weigh in on the decades-old practice of adjusting clocks twice a year. The consultation, which began on October 22 and will run through December 1, aims to gather insight on whether the province should continue with DST or abandon it.
The biannual clock adjustment, introduced during WWI to conserve energy, has long been questioned for its relevance in modern life. Studies in recent years have highlighted the adverse effects of DST on health and well-being, prompting renewed public dialogue. “This initiative allows us to hear from Quebecers and analyse the broad effects of DST, from health to economic impacts,” said Quebec’s Justice Minister, Simon Jolin-Barrette.
Many health professionals and researchers argue DST disrupts natural sleep cycles, leading to “social jet lag,” which is linked to an increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and depression. “Morning light is crucial for well-being, health, and productivity,” said Rébecca Robillard, associate professor and co-chair of the Canadian Sleep Research Consortium. “Maintaining a permanent Standard Time would align more closely with our biological clocks and could mitigate many of these health issues.”
For those involved in agriculture, like Gema Villavivencio of Pure Conscience Farm in Clarendon, the time change impacts daily routines. “In winter, when it gets dark at 4 pm, it’s harder to keep up with farm work,” she noted. “Having more light in the late afternoon would be a huge help, especially during harvest time when every hour counts.”
Villavivencio added that a stable schedule would align better with her needs. “We’re already following the rhythms of the land,” she said, “so a permanent time would make our days feel more natural.”
A change could pose economic and logistical challenges if Quebec moves away from DST while neighbouring regions, like Ontario and the US, continue the practice. Quebec’s Justice Ministry acknowledged this factor, stating alignment with trading partners will be a key consideration in the final decision.
The consultation provides various ways for citizens to engage, from surveys to open discussions. Residents have until December 1 to participate in the survey: consultation.quebec.ca/processes/changement-heure?locale=en.
