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In a recent address to the House of Representatives, Morocco’s Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, Amal Filah al-Sghroushni, reaffirmed the legal framework governing the country’s practice of daylight saving time. The minister emphasized that the implementation of the additional hour is not an isolated sectorial decision, but a product of a comprehensive legal system.
Legal Framework Underpinning Time Change
During a session of oral questions, al-Sghroushni elaborated on the historical context, citing Royal Decree No. 455.67 from June 2, 1967, and Decree No. 2.18.855 from October 26, 2018, which mandates the adjustment of the legal time by adding 60 minutes. She noted that this system is complemented by various government initiatives aimed at adjusting public administration working hours and the school timetable to better suit local conditions, thereby ensuring continuity in public services under appropriate circumstances.
Balancing Diverse Needs
The minister underscored that the management of this issue incorporates an institutional approach, respecting the jurisdictional boundaries of each sector. She asserted that evaluating the impact of the additional hour is contingent upon multiple factors, necessitating a comprehensive assessment that aligns with economic integration requirements and public expectations. The government acknowledges the potential effects of this system on families, administration, and educational institutions, committing to a collaborative and responsible engagement to ensure clarity and stability in public decision-making for the common good.
Calls for Reassessment from Lawmakers
However, lawmakers have voiced concerns regarding the continued implementation of daylight saving time. Deputy Rime Shabaat criticized the system for its detrimental effects on sleep patterns, mental health, and overall productivity of Moroccans. She highlighted that citizens have seen little economic or energy benefits from the change. Shabaat urged authorities to consider the challenges faced by students, particularly in rural areas who must travel to schools before dawn, and pointed out the government’s inadequate response to these critical issues.
Similarly, Deputy Youssef Beyzaid from the Progressive and Socialist Group called for a reassessment of the daylight saving time decree. He emphasized the government’s obligation to respond to the growing criticism rather than adopt a passive stance. Beyzaid also revealed that his group has reached out to the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council to conduct a thorough study on the implications of this system, urging the government to initiate a wide-ranging evaluation of daylight saving time’s impact on the daily lives of Moroccans.
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Morocco daylight saving time, Amal Filah al-Sghroushni, public administration, rural education, time management, government response, economic implications
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Morocco’s Minister affirms the legal basis for daylight saving time amid rising parliamentary criticism regarding its impact on citizens’ daily lives.
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As daylight saving time stirs controversy in Morocco, government officials defend its legality while citizens call for urgent reassessment.
