MPs get chance to present arguments for and against daylight saving

Electoral Affairs Minister Norman Moore today explained the process required to enable the daylight saving referendum to be held on Saturday, May 16.

Mr Moore said the requirements of the Daylight Saving Act, 2006, meant May 16 was the earliest possible date to hold the referendum. A writ would need to be issued a minimum of 31 days earlier.

"However, after advice from Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately, I have asked that the writ for the referendum be issued 38 days earlier, on Thursday, April 9, just before Easter," he said.

"Members of Parliament will have until April 16 to submit arguments for the Yes or No cases.

"If MPs do not take this opportunity there will be an additional two weeks - until April 30 - for the Electoral Commissioner to obtain arguments for the Yes or No cases from community groups."

The Minister said the electoral roll would close on Friday, April 17 and the Electoral Commissioner would make the Yes and No arguments available to the electorate via a letter drop or through other means such as advertising.

"This process is necessary in order to deal with this question of daylight saving," Mr Moore said.

"The topic has generated many arguments over the years and I would urge every eligible voter to exercise their franchise and vote on this issue on May 16.

"I would remind people that voting in a state referendum is compulsory, as for a state election and attracts fines if people fail to exercise their democratic responsibilities."