Civic election candidate pushes Uber to combat drunk driving

Public transit is one of the key issues in Saskatoon's civic election.Now, one councillor seeking re-election is introducing the debate over ride-sharing, specifically Uber.

Darren Hill is running in Ward 1.

Today, he urged the immediate introduction of ride-sharing programs right across the province as a tool against drunk driving.

"Uber will not only decrease the number of DUIs in Saskatoon and Saskatchewan, but it will also increase capacity for public transit," said Hill. "I will immediately begin lobbying SGI for the development of both licensing and insurance coverage for ride-sharing programs. I will also lobby the Attorney General's office for changes in the traffic safety act to accommodate ride sharing programs like Uber."

Hill wants Uber in place in Saskatoon in time for the Christmas party season.

Uber responds

In response, a spokesperson with Uber released the following statement:

"We appreciate Councillor Hill's leadership, and that of any candidate, to fight impaired driving and bring ride-sharing to Saskatchewan. We would be pleased to work with the provincial government on smart regulations that will bring more transportation options without raising taxes."