Uber attracts interest in Kelowna

Globalnews.ca
April 12, 2016
By Doris Maria Bregolisse

More than 50 people came out to an information meeting Monday night hosted by the ridesharing company Uber.

While the service is not available in B.C., those who came out to enquire about becoming Uber drivers said the service should be allowed to operate.

“I’m surprised there aren’t more students currently here right now because [Uber is] work your own hours, the ultimate part time job for someone like that,” said 23-year-old Geoff Webb.

“I’m a retired, almost, truck driver for 40 years and there’s gotta be something a little bit easier than chaining up on the Coquihalla and waiting for the road to open up,” said Dave Bare.

Uber said many B.C. residents want to use their service.

“A lot of people are really interested and really excited about ride-sharing,” said Michael van Hemmer, director of public policy for Uber. “We hope to give them more information about how they might be able to partner in the future.”

“Uber and ride sharing provides great opportunities for municipalities and cities like Kelowna,” said van Hemmer. “We hope to be here shortly.”

Uber said B.C. is the largest jurisdiction in North America without ridesharing.