In a resolution adopted on February 8, the European Parliament has called for a thorough assessment of the current bi-annual time change.
The resolution was a response to citizens’ initiatives and petitions that show the public is concerned about the bi-annual clock change marking the beginning and end of summertime, which currently takes place the last weekend in March and October.
According to a European Parliament press release, numerous studies have failed to reach a conclusive outcome, but indicate negative effects on human health. This is why MEPs are calling on the Commission to conduct a thorough assessment of the summer-time arrangements directive and, if necessary, to table a proposal to revise it.
The resolution was adopted with 384 votes in favour, 153 against, 12 abstentions.
The current summer-time arrangements directive, which entered into force in 2001, provides a harmonised date and time for the beginning and end of the summer-time period across the EU, with the aim of helping the internal market to function effectively.
