We mustn’t tamper with clock-changing times

Each year, as the clocks go back at the end of October, there are some who say we should drop daylight saving or that we should align with mainland Europe (CET). 

This should help people with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), could reduce road fatalities from 4pm to 7pm, and save countless tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. Changing the clocks causes confusion.

But, as we approach the shortest day of the year, nature demonstrates what leaving the clocks alone each October or joining CET would mean. This morning, as children left for school between 8am and 8.30am, it was just getting bright. Leaving clocks as they are in October will mean it gets brighter one hour later than now.

So our children and commuters would travel to school or work in darkness and anyone working outdoors couldn’t start work before 9.30am without lighting. Is that a good idea? I say no.

Hendrick Verwey

Old Church

Cobh

Co Cork