I would like to state, on Section 2, the result of the International Conference which caused us to postpone the further consideration of the Bill. The Conference was held between representatives of the British, French, Dutch and Belgian Governments to consider the fixing of common dates for the beginning and ending of Summer Time. It is understood the Conference has recommended that Summer Time for the present year should commence on the night of March 29th and end on the first Saturday in October. The representative of the British Government found he could not agree to the commencing date, as legislation would be required before any alteration in the present date could be made in Great Britain, and it would have been impossible to pass any legislation for the purpose in the time which remained. The same position exists here. It is necessary to give due notice to railway and steamship companies, so that their time tables may be prepared and any changes in them made. Furthermore, serious difficulties would be caused these companies by any difference between the Saorstát and Northern Ireland in the dates between which Summer Time operates. As regards future years, the Conference recommended that Summer Time should come into force on the first Saturday in April and end on the first Saturday in October. The proposals of the Conference have not so far been given definite effect to in any of the countries concerned, and it would be premature to make any changes in the ending date by legislation until it is clear if a common date will be adopted by the other countries. If such a common date be adopted, other than that fixed in the Bill for the termination of Summer Time, the Government will consider whether an amending Bill should be introduced later on. That is, in substance, the net result of the International Conference that was held, and, as a result, there is no factor which causes us to make any alteration in the times fixed under Section 2 of this Bill.
DÁIL IN COMMITTEE. - SUMMER TIME BILL.—THIRD STAGE.
Motion made and question put—"That Section 1 stand part of the Bill."
Agreed.
Motion made—"That Section 2 stand part of the Bill."
Mr. O'HIGGINS
Question put and agreed to.
Sections 3 and 4 put and agreed to.
Title put and agreed to.