The twice-yearly debate is about to end in British Columbia, where the outdated idea of Daylight Saving Time is about to end.
Unfortunately, as is often the case, they are about to get it half right.
You see, Premier David Eby says they are going to “spring forward” one last night this weekend (like the rest of us will) and then never “fall back” again.
Unfortunately, while this is the right idea, it’s the wrong switch to cancel.
You see, we should be following the example of our trailblazing neighbours to the west is Saskwatchewan, who have never observed Daylight Saving Time.
The evidence that switching the clocks twice a year is harmful is well known. It results in a number of adverse health effects, including an increase in heart attacks and strokes, infections, diseases, workplace injuries and car crashes, never mind the disruption to our usual schedules.
The case for keeping Daylight Time year-round is we enjoy the extra hour of daylight in the evening. More useable time. More fun.
However, earlier daylight in the morning on Standard Time means less darkness for children out waiting for the bus by the side of the road, especially in rural areas. It also helps people wake up earlier and be more awake when they get behind the wheel in the morning.
In the case between BC and Saskatchewan, between fun and safety, there is (in my mind) only one answer. It would also be nice not to lose an hour of sleep this weekend, but progress takes time and hopefully eventually gives that time back to you.
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
