Uber Is Expanding Across Quebec So You Can Get A Ride Just About Anywhere
Need a ride in Shawinigan? Uber has officially announced its plans to expand its ride-sharing service to cover the entirety of Quebec. As part of an ongoing pilot project, the company has so far only been available in Montreal, Quebec City, and Gatineau. Thanks to the provisions under Bill 17, Uber will now be able to operate in cities across the province starting in the fall.
This is the first time in Canada that Uber has been granted permission to operate province-wide.
Editor's Choice: Ardene Is Having A Huge Warehouse Sale In Montreal & Everything Is $5 Or Less (VIDEO)
"We are excited about the opportunity to provide more Quebecers with access to safe, affordable and reliable rides," said Jonathan Hamel, Head of Public Affairs for Uber in Quebec.
"Since the beginning of our pilot programs in Quebec, we have been collaborating with the Ministère des Transports and will continue to work with their teams and key industry stakeholders to develop sustainable mobility solutions for everyone, in all regions."
With the implementation of Bill 17, the ridesharing industry in Quebec is set up for a huge boom, according to Uber.
"We are grateful to the Quebec government for its confidence in our operations and the hard work needed to bring ridesharing to the province," concluded Hamel.
Uber says that it's taking a "collaborative approach" with taxi services in Quebec and will develop partnerships with regional governments.
"With these new regulations, Uber is opening its application to traditional taxis, allowing taxi drivers the opportunity to access the platform for additional earning opportunities," the company said in a press release.
The company recently expanded its operations to include parts of rural B.C. and Winnipeg.
Uber's entry into the Quebec market hasn't come without controversy, however.
Last year, a series of protests by taxi drivers paralyzed downtown traffic with drivers honking their horns in solidarity against Bill 17.
Taxi unions have said that the law will destroy their business and that the government isn't listening to their concerns.
Despite this, Uber is pushing ahead with expansion.
"We are very pleased to see Uber seek to expand its services in several regions of Quebec. Putting this reliable and effective option available in one click will encourage many to plan for a safe and sober return rather than taking the risk of driving while impaired," said Marie Claude Morin, Quebec Regional Manager for MADD Canada.
