KELOWNA, B.C. – More than 50 people came out to an information meeting Monday night hosted by the ridesharing company Uber.
While the service is not available in B.C., those who came out to enquire about becoming Uber drivers said the service should be allowed to operate.
“I’m a retired, almost, truck driver for 40 years and there’s gotta be something a little bit easier than chaining up on the Coquihalla and waiting for the road to open up,” said Dave Bare.
“I’m just here because I believe in free enterprise,” said Ralph Brisson.
Uber said many B.C. residents want to use their service.
“A lot of people are really interested and really excited about ride-sharing,” said Michael van Hemmer, director of public policy for Uber. “We hope to give them more information about how they might be able to partner in the future.”
“Uber and ride sharing provides great opportunities for municipalities and cities like Kelowna,” said van Hemmer. “We hope to be here shortly.”
Uber said B.C. is the largest jurisdiction in North America without ridesharing.