Is Fort McMurray prepared for Uber, a ride sharing program and app that was recently approved in Edmonton? Some councillors have doubts that the area is fully prepared after there were protests by cab drivers and other transportation professionals in other larger Canadian cities. According to Councillor Tyran Ault, who has a place on the Land, Planning and Transportation Committee, “Our preparedness for incoming ride-sharing programs has definitely come up during meetings. Edmonton has made some great steps forward in terms of this issue.” Uber drivers are private individuals who own a vehicle that is a 2010 or newer, and they must have a clean driving record. Unlike cab drivers Uber drivers do not have to pay costly fees for licensing and registration, and this has some cab drivers upset and angry.

According to one cab driver named Sam, who did not want to disclose his last name, Uber could cost cab drivers in Fort McMurray business. Sam explained that he makes a personal connection with passengers, giving out his priate number and business card so passengers can call him again when they need a ride. Sam told Today that “They know me and I get to know them. I’ve made friends this way. The other drivers aren’t doing so well these days. I’m not doing as good as I used to, but I still have some people still asking me for my service.” Sam also talked about Uber coming to Fort McMurray, saying “It’s probably going to happen. I can picture a guy at camp making extra money driving guys from site into town. There’s a lot of money for Uber here, so I hope I’m remembered.”