For the first time, Uber is hinting at a possible launch in Victoria, B.C. The company said the province’s capital would be a perfect candidate for its ride-sharing service.
Uber currently operates in dozens of Canadian cities, but the company has been fighting against legislations in Canada’s west coast. Uber Canada says spring session of Legislature would be a perfect opportunity for the province to take leadership and finally embrace ride-sharing services like Uber.
Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps said that she will welcome Uber to the city if the company is willing to play by the rules. In a statement, Helps says:
“I support it as long as it’s fair, I support it as long as Uber doesn’t bust into British Columbia and then see what happens. I support them working with the Minister of Transportation to create a legislative framework that makes it fair.”
Taxi associations in many Canadian cities have spoken out and even protested against ride-sharing services, saying that they are not regulated and they negatively impact their bottom line. In various responses, Uber has argued that ride-sharing cuts down on carbon emissions and reduces distracted and impaired driving.
In a statement released on Friday, Transportation Minister Todd Stone said:
“Our government is looking for every opportunity to respond to the needs of consumers, to support the free market and competition in the industry, while also ensuring travelers are secure in the knowledge that they pay to ride in vehicles that are safe, reliable and properly insured.”
Keep in mind that any suggestion Uber is moving into Victoria is speculative and the company has not officially announced any plans or dates at this time.
[via CTV News]
