The association representing Saskatoon taxi drivers has drafted a proposal to city council for a “fleet-service” of private vehicles, allowing drivers to use private vehicles during periods of high demand.
Saskatchewan Taxi Cab Association spokesperson, Shondra Boire, said in a statement the idea is to have a series of private cars with trained drivers. “These ‘flex’ cabs would operate like any other taxi and require the same safeguards—commercial insurance, criminal record checks and training, vehicle safety inspection and identification, and in-car camera surveillance.”
Boire said the new service will provide a solution to curb impaired driving in the province.
“The fact that Saskatchewan has the highest rate per capita of impaired driving in Canada is a clarion call for all—citizens and governments to find real workable solutions to what can only be described as a terrible black eye for our province,” Boire said.
In addition, the cab association said it will not increase its fares as demand rises, like the ride-share app Uber. Instead, the association said its flex feet would still charge the same as a regular taxi.
The service would only be available during periods of higher demand and could be ordered through a mobile app.
The STCA hopes to roll out the plan by year’s end if it is approved by government.
“This solution could be adopted quickly with the cooperation of both Saskatoon City Council and the provincial government, certainly no later than this Christmas and New Year,” Boire said.
