Those hoping it would soon be easier to catch a ride around Greater Victoria wonB次元官网网址檛 be getting their way.

The provincial government has said ride-hailing companies can begin applying for the licence this week. But both Uber and and Lyft have announced they will operate only in the Lower Mainland for now.

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Dan Dagg, chair of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, said the region has shown a demand for ride hailing, which he described as a B次元官网网址渢ransportation innovationB次元官网网址� that appeals to people because of its convenience and cost.

B次元官网网址淭ourists and business people expect to be able to use ride-hailing services in the places they visit or operate, and we want our region to have modern transportation options,B次元官网网址� he said.

But the decision came as welcome news to Mohan Singh Kang, president of the BC Taxi Association representing the majority of some 40 taxi companies on Vancouver Island.

B次元官网网址淢y concern is always for the best interests of the taxi family.B次元官网网址�

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Kang said UberB次元官网网址檚 decision to forgo Greater Victoria for now will benefit the industry. B次元官网网址淚t will be good for the taxi industry, because it gives them time to prepare for ride hailing companies whenever they start operating in the [Capital Regional District],B次元官网网址� he said.

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