UberX launch irks head of Associated Cab

The arrival of UberX on the streets of Calgary has raised the ire of a local taxi company boss.

• UberX launches in Calgary despite city bylaws
• Council rejects rule changes that were to pave way for Uber Black

The private ride-hailing service started operations on Thursday afternoon despite warnings from city officials that drivers would technically be violating three sections of that bylaw, with each violation carrying a minimum fine of $1,500.

Roger Richard, president of Associated Cabs, likened Uber's tactics to someone who decides to open a liquor store in a garage.

"We were hoping that they would be waiting for the bylaw review next month but being a bully operation they totally disregard every law ... bylaws. It's their way or the highway," he said.

"If every business was to do that in the city, what would you have? I mean, if you have a restaurant, you don't need an inspection. You could operate a liquor store from your backyard or the garage. There is a reason for laws and bylaws."

Positive response

Some Calgarians are already enthusiastically embracing UberX.

Kray Mitchell, who has used UberX in Los Angeles and San Diego, says he's not sure why the city has a problem with the service.

"I think it's a little silly, I think regulations should change based on the technology being used in our day-to-day lives and it doesn't make sense that you wouldn't be able to do this just because of the fact that it's not called a cab."

Uber spokesman Xavier Van Chau says the company wants rules.

"And so we're coming to market at a time where there isn't regulatory oversight over the service we're providing, but we want that regulatory certainty, and so we've actually reached out to the mayor and the city staff to help develop ride-sharing regulations that are specific to this model of service," Chau said.