Alberta’s premier intends to move the province to year-round daylight saving time. Premier Danielle Smith announced this development amid discussions about time changes in neighboring regions.
The Yukon implemented permanent daylight saving time in 2020. British Columbia plans to make the switch in March 2026. These changes have prompted Alberta to reconsider its own time policy.
In a 2021 vote, Albertans opted to keep the current system, which involves changing clocks twice a year. About 49.8% of voters supported moving permanently to daylight saving time, while 50.2% opposed it.
A recent survey conducted by the Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) showed that 87% of respondents favored eliminating biannual clock changes. This survey received approximately 3,500 responses.
The NWT government has expressed concerns about falling out of sync with Alberta and other nearby provinces regarding time changes. They believe coordination is essential for residents and businesses.
Smith stated, “The time we are in right now is the time it will be.” This comment reflects her commitment to pursuing permanent daylight saving time.
However, details remain unconfirmed as the legislation for this change still needs approval in the Alberta Legislature. The timeline for this process remains unclear.
In contrast, Premier RJ Simpson of the Northwest Territories remarked, “The thing that needs to happen is Alberta needs to get on board.” His statement highlights regional pressure for alignment on time policies.
Historically, Alberta adopted daylight saving time in 1971 after a referendum passed with 61.5% in favor. Since then, periodic discussions about changes have surfaced.
Currently, it appears that Alberta’s United Conservative Party government is expected to permanently make this shift. Following British Columbia’s decision earlier this year, Smith indicated her government would reconsider abandoning the practice of changing clocks twice per year.
About The Author
