We need more taxis

Re: “Cab shortage,” Letter, July 4.

I have worked in the taxi and limousine industry for 33 years. The Young Canadians’ transportation arrangements are not 123 taxis, but between 30 and 35 taxis, a shared ride system which ensures that these children get to and from the show safely each night. This has no effect on Calgary’s taxi shortage.

To indicate that this has anything to do with an intoxicated individual making a bad choice and getting behind the wheel is irresponsible.

There are many options besides taxis, including sedan limousines, companies like Keys Please, and Calgary Transit, which offers extended service hours during Stampede.

If we are going to lay blame, it is with the individuals who decide on the number of taxis operating in the city. The City of Calgary Livery Transport Services and stakeholders in the taxi industry put forth a proposal to the taxi and limousine advisory committee a few weeks ago, and the recommendation to add 310 new taxis to the streets was quashed.

I don’t know what they’re thinking, but we have citizens screaming for more and better taxi services. We have over 4,000 licensed taxi drivers and 1,526 licensed taxis. Many drivers would love to work, but accessing a taxi to drive can be challenging during peak times.

Let’s get enough cabs on the street so that the demand for service can be managed in an efficient manner, and people can stop looking for alternative groups to blame.