The Manitoba government has put out a request for proposals to review the state of the taxicab industry in Winnipeg.

The review will make recommendations on how to improve customer service and strengthen public safety, Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell said in a news release Thursday.

"The taxicab industry is changing, and we want to engage citizens in determining the best way forward to meet customer demand in an innovative way and to ensure public safety is protected," Caldwell said.

The review will include a consultation process involving the general public, the hospitality and tourism sectors, the health-care, disability and aging communities sectors, the business community and the taxicab industry, which would include dispatch companies, owners and drivers, the minister said.

"During the winter season, starting Nov. 2, the board has authorized a total of almost 756 licensed vehicles in Winnipeg, almost twice the number of regular standard taxicab licences, and many of them are accessible with 80 handicab vans and 48 accessible taxicabs," said David Sanders, who chairs Manitoba's Taxicab Board.

"Our primary mandate is to ensure that the needs of the public are met effectively and economically."

Sanders added that members of the board look forward to receiving accurate and up-to-date evidence regarding the performance of the industry, in meeting the various needs of the community, and opportunities to improve services and accessibility for all citizens and visitors in Winnipeg.

Today's announcement is recognition there has been a growing need for an updated study to streamline existing regulations while addressing the needs and concerns of the public, Caldwell said.