Manitoba Liberal leader Rana Bokhari (HANDOUT)
The ride-sharing app Uber is shown Thursday, May 14, 2015 in Montreal. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz)
WINNIPEG — If Liberal leader Rana Bokhari were to lead the next provincial government, ride-sharing service Uber would be welcomed in Manitoba.
Bokhari said Thursday her government would work with the taxi industry and drivers to make the transition fair and equitable.
“We want what’s best for Manitobans and they are telling us they want to be able to use their smart phones to access transportation,” Bokhari said.
“We won’t stand in the way of applications that allow that, but will work with the taxi companies to ensure they are fairly compensated. Government over-regulation of this industry has helped lead to competitive weakness, and for that reason we are prepared to negotiate a deal that works for current licence holders.
The Liberals would also work with the City of Winnipeg to create legislation to allow different forms of ride-sharing services, as well as Manitoba Public Insurance to develop products allowing vehicle owners to use their rides as part of Uber.
Uber already exists in 30 Canadian municipalities, allowing users to book a ride via a smartphone as a cashless transaction.
Manitoba voters head to the polls in April.
— Staff
