Premier Wab Kinew wants Manitobans to decide: Should the province stop changing clocks?

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says the province could soon ask residents whether it is time to end the long-standing tradition of changing clocks twice a year.

The premier recently indicated that the government is considering launching a public survey to gather feedback from Manitobans on the issue of daylight saving time. The consultation would help determine whether residents want to keep the current system of moving clocks forward in the spring and back in the fall, or switch to a single permanent time year-round.

According to Kinew, the idea is gaining attention because many people question whether the seasonal clock change still makes sense today. While the practice was originally introduced to make better use of daylight hours, critics argue that modern lifestyles have reduced its benefits.

Health experts have also raised concerns about the impact of the time shift. Research has suggested that adjusting clocks twice a year can disrupt sleep patterns and affect productivity for several days after the change. These concerns have led several regions across North America to reconsider the practice.

Kinew noted that Manitobans frequently raise the issue with their elected officials, which is why the government believes public consultation is the next step. By surveying residents, the province hopes to better understand whether people prefer continuing the current system or adopting a permanent time standard.

However, the decision is not simple. Any change would likely need to consider how Manitoba aligns with neighbouring provinces and nearby U.S. states. Differences in time systems could affect travel, transportation schedules, and business operations.

Several jurisdictions have already taken steps to move away from seasonal clock changes. Some parts of Canada have discussed permanent daylight saving time, while others have chosen to stay on standard time throughout the year.

For now, Manitoba has not made any final decision. The provincial government says gathering public input will help guide the conversation before any policy changes are considered.

If implemented, the survey would give Manitobans a direct opportunity to weigh in on whether the province should continue the tradition of changing clocks or move toward a new timekeeping approach.