Judge to rule Tuesday on latest Quebec taxi industry injunction request against Uber

MetroNews.ca
Sept. 27, 2016

A judge will rule Tuesday on the taxi industry's latest attempt to stop Uber's operations in Quebec.

Taxi drivers have been trying to get a court injunction against a recent agreement between the Quebec government and the ride-hailing company.

Quebec and Uber signed a deal for a one-year pilot project earlier this month that would allow the U.S.-based firm to operate legally in the province.

Taxi drivers argue that since the pilot project hasn't come into force yet, Uber is currently operating illegally in the province.

They want a judge to force Uber drivers to stop offering rides.

Uber lawyer Francois Giroux argued in court Monday there was no urgency to issue such an injunction against the company.

The taxi industry argues the deal creates a two-tier industry as Uber drivers won't have to rent or purchase traditional permits, which cost cab drivers upward of $200,000 if a car is included in the price.

Under the agreement, Uber will be granted the equivalent of 300 taxi permits, but will collect federal and provincial sales tax. 

The cost of each ride includes a contribution to a fund to help modernize the taxi industry.

Superior Court Justice Michel Yergeau is expected to render a decision before noon on Tuesday.