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Toronto City Hall

Taxi industry set to speak out on council's decision on Uber rules

A taxi is shown in this file photo. (Chris Fox/CP24.com)

The Toronto Taxi Alliance says they will speak out Wednesday on new ride-sharing rules introduced by Toronto city council last week.

On May 3, city councilors voted in favour of allowing companies like Uber to operate in the city, with a set of new regulations.

The rules included making snow tires a requirement for taxi and Uber drivers in the winter. The motion also set the new minimum price at $3.25 for Uber X rides.

Executive director of the Toronto Taxi Alliance Rita Smith said the main topics of discussion Wednesday will be surge pricing, insurance and the security cameras.

“We’re encouraged to think that there will be clarifying by-laws in place as early as July 15 so that we can focus on customer service and competing in the ground transportation market,” she said in an email.

She said there were parts of the motion the taxi industry supports, like ensuring Uber drivers have to “provide proof of insurance to the city.” She said they also support keeping security cameras in taxis.

“There are other elements which we find challenging, but we will find a way to work with the new by-laws,” she said.

The announcement will be made at city hall’s member’s lounge at 10 a.m.