Unilateral time change another cost to business

VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade is concerned by the Province's unilateral decision towards observing year-round Daylight Savings Time (DST) without coordination with neighbouring jurisdictions. Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, released the following statement:

“The unliterally change in time is an unwelcome distraction that will make it more difficult to attract and retain businesses in British Columbia. 

In 2019, then Premier John Horgan, passed legislation to let B.C. enact permanent DST but pledged to wait until neighbouring jurisdictions agreed to move, to avoid any economic disruption and disadvantage.

The choice to change the time unilaterally will create an additional headache for businesses operating on both sides of the border.”

Facts:

• Businesses and the public support generally support adopting year-round Daylight Savings Time but they want neighbouring jurisdictions to be aligned. 
• According to the government’s 2019 consultation (page 64, table D15) only 19% of lower mainland residents said that B.C. should adopt year-round observance of Daylight Savings Time without neighbouring jurisdictions. 
• 56% of Lower Mainland residents said it was very important or important to align with other jurisdictions. On a 3 to 1 basis British Columbians said it is important to be aligned with neighbouring jurisdictions. 

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Federico Cerani
Communications Manager 
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade 
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com