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Montreal taxi industry wants quick decision on Uber injunction

Click to play video: 'Montreal taxis seek injunction against government, Uber'
Montreal taxis seek injunction against government, Uber
WATCH ABOVE: Montreal's taxi drivers are in court to seek an injunction against the Quebec government's last minute deal with Uber. Global's Tim Sargeant reports – Sep 16, 2016

Lawyer for Quebec’s taxi industry, Marc-Antoine Cloutier, is arguing the government’s one year deal with ride-sharing service, Uber should be suspended.

The province’s taxi drivers want the courts to impose an injunction against the government of Quebec over its last-minute deal with Uber.

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The agreement in principle is a pilot project that will allow the ride-hailing service to continue operating in the province.

READ MORE: Uber cars seized in Quebec, drivers fined and licences confiscated

As a result, Uber drivers will be allowed to purchase intermediary permits at a much cheaper rate than current taxi rates.

Taxi groups argue the project is illegal because it doesn’t conform to the rules laid out in Bill 100 and are hoping the courts will agree that the deal is unfair.

“[The minister] will give many permits for about $70 per week or $280 per month. Now, we pay $300 a week and $1,200 per month,” said taxi spokesperson Guy Chevrette.

READ MORE: Uber negotiations in Quebec: will they stay or will they go?

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Chevrette argued the cabbies are not ruling out any pressure tactics.

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READ MORE: Agreement reached in Uber-Quebec dispute

He called the Uber business model “banditry,” saying it’s ruining an old industry where people do not make a fortune.

WATCH BELOW: Uber’s place in Quebec

Nevertheless, Quebec is continuing its crackdown on the ride-sharing service.

This week, at least a dozen drivers had their cars impounded, licences revoked and were forced to pay $3,750 in fines and fees.

READ MORE: Quebec taxi drivers may sue province over ‘illegal’ Uber deal

This is because there is a 20-day grace period between the signing of a new deal and when it actually comes into effect.

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Judge Michel Déziel did not make a decision on the injunction Friday.

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