Government confirms opposition to EU daylight savings plan

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan announced the decision following a Cabinet meeting yesterday, which considered the findings of an interdepartmental steering group and a public consultation exercise.

The minister said: “While I acknowledge that many favour ending the practice of seasonal clock changes, the proposal is not a straightforward one.

“It would be profoundly serious if two different time zones were to exist on the island of Ireland, creating significant unnecessary problems for people living on the border and for the all-island economy.

“I am heartened to note that the Government’s decision today is in agreement with 82 per cent of the public in a representative opinion poll held as part of the consultative process.”

As well as concerns that Northern Ireland and the Republic could be in different timezones, the Government shares concerns that the current proposal may result in a “patchwork” of timezones across the EU.

The proposal, as drafted, suggests that each member state may choose to stay in summer or winter time year round. The Government noted that this proposal, which could result in member states of similar latitudes choosing different times, could negatively impact the functioning of the the single market.