Cab drivers seek hike to cover rising costs

Edmonton taxi drivers are requesting a rate increase of at least 10 per cent to cover rising gas prices and the cost of living.

“We spend at least 15 to 20 per cent of our earnings on gas only, and groceries, power bills, everything has gone up,” said Balraj Manhas, president of the United Cabbies Association of Edmonton.

“It’s already five years (since the last increase), so we need this.”

Manhas sent a letter Thursday to city councillors, the mayor and the city’s chief livery officer, Garry Dziwenka, who confirmed the letter was received. He said they will start a consultation process with the taxi industry and passengers before making any decision.

“We understand what the cab drivers are saying, but we have a process we need to follow,” Dziwenka said.

Manhas said the last rate increase was in 2008, when the drivers were awarded eight per cent. The 10-percent increase they are looking for now would mean customers pay $1 to $2 more on the average fare. The increase would apply only to the perkilometre rate, said Manhas.

Rates in Edmonton are regulated by a city bylaw. The rate is currently set at $3.60 plus $1.48 per kilometre and $30 per hour of waiting time. Customers needing a van face a $9 surcharge, and there is a $3 night surcharge on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

This makes the average daytime fare between $15 and $20, said Manhas. It costs about $50 to get from downtown to the airport.

Higher costs with no rate increase mean cab drivers are forced to drive longer shifts to make a living, often working 12 hours a day, said Manhas. If they suffer fatigue, that affects their own safety and the safety of their customers.