Duffy's, Unicity join together to fight ride-sharing program Uber in Winnipeg

Winnipeg's two biggest cab companies — Duffy's Taxi and Unicity Taxi — are joining together to fight Uber or any other ride-sharing program that is eyeing the city.

The newly-formed Winnipeg Taxi Alliance will advertise the benefits of using a regulated taxi over taking an Uber car.

They've launched a campaign called Trusted Transit that will "raise awareness" about the positives of the local taxi industry and take aim at ride-sharing services.

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The alliance is arguing regulated cabs are safer because of regular checks on drivers and vehicles.

"It is easier for them to be cheaper because they're not paying for a lot of the fixed costs that are associated and regulated for safety and consumer protection services here in Manitoba. We're talking driver training, criminal background checks, first aid training for the drivers," said Luc Lewandoski, a spokesperson for the campaign.

Uber has yet to set up shop in Winnipeg, and the Province of Manitoba has said in the past the ride-share program wouldn't be welcome here.

Other Canadian cities have seen massive revolts by cab drivers when Uber arrived, and Edmonton even attempted to regulate the program through bylaws. 

Now, the mayors of Toronto and Edmonton are working together on a way to regulate the ride-sharing program.

Meanwhile, some people in Winnipeg say they would like to see Uber in the city.

Josh Bell said he has used Uber before and doesn't understand the opposition.

"I think people [are] too stupid; they want to be treated like, 'Uh oh, Uber.' Somebody said it in a song now: 'Everybody wants to take Uber. Get in a cab, go down the street, call an Uber,'" he said.

"I think Uber would be good coming to Winnipeg," said Stephanie Smith.

"I know a lot of people are talking about wanting to start working there when it comes to Winnipeg, so I think it will be good."

There are currently 647 cabs on the road in Winnipeg. In the winter, that number jumps by as many as 110 more.

Uber Canada did not return a request for comment on Thursday.