A part of Northwestern Ontario may become isolated in the central time zone if it does not transition to permanent daylight savings time, similar to Manitoba. MPP Sol Mamakwa, representing the Kiiwetinoong riding, highlighted potential challenges in coordinating activities like flights and health care appointments for residents in northwestern Ontario, particularly those in the western regions that share a time zone with Manitoba.
Following Manitoba’s decision to adopt permanent daylight savings time starting November 1, Mamakwa conducted a survey in the Kiiwetinoong area to gauge public opinion on this matter. The survey received 1,085 responses, with 91% expressing support for making the switch.
Acknowledging the importance of considering the local community’s perspective, Mamakwa has engaged with Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Attorney General Doug Downey regarding the issue. He personally advocates for northern Ontario to embrace permanent daylight savings time.
Meanwhile, Fort Frances municipality also conducted a survey to gather feedback on a potential time change. Mayor Andrew Hallikas expressed surprise at Manitoba’s sudden announcement and the implications it could have on local time synchronization. The survey yielded over 3,600 responses, with a significant majority (92%) favoring alignment with Manitoba’s time zone permanently.
Fort Frances council has endorsed the idea of transitioning to permanent daylight savings time, contingent upon the majority of northwestern Ontario municipalities and First Nations supporting the change. If this consensus is achieved, a bylaw to implement permanent daylight savings time will be presented at an upcoming council meeting.