Regina could see ride sharing by next year: mayor

Regina’s mayor is hopeful Uber and other ride sharing companies are able to operate in the Queen City by sometime next year.

Mayor Michael Fougere indicated there are a few steps before that happens. He said the city will wait until recently introduced provincial legislation is passed.

City administration wants to consult further with the taxi industry and gather feedback from residents, said Fougere.

He added they want to see what other cities that already have these companies in place have done as well.

“Once we do our due-diligence and then we consult properly, I’d like to see this certainly next year,” he said with a hint of confidence. “We’re going to get it right. We’re going to look at experiences of other municipalities.”

With the groundwork laid for ride sharing to set up in cities and towns in Saskatchewan, the mayor realizes things are evolving. He reiterated his past comments, saying that competition breeds excellence.

“When you have Uber, that certainly changes the game, so to speak. It’s not just taxis anymore, it’s actually ride-share which is a different concept.”

What regulation will look like exactly still has to be discussed and determined. Fougere said that could include the cost and number of licenses, ensuring vehicles are clean and meet certain standards, and that they are properly insured.

Whether it’s a ride sharing company or a taxi, the mayor insisted there will be fairness and equitability to how they’re regulated, trying to ensure — at least, as close as possible — a level playing field.

“I don’t want to prejudge anything other than to say that when you add and influence the market you want to make sure that everyone’s treated fairly; that concept, I think, is very important,” he Fougere.