NPA Councillor Melissa de Genova claims Vision majority has deliberately tried to keep ride-sharing out of Vancouver

Former Vancouver city councillor Geoff Meggs has been one of the most outspoken opponents of Uber

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Efforts to bring ride-sharing services like Uber to Vancouver might be further slowed down now that former Vancouver city councillor Geoff Meggs has a new job as the Chief of Staff for BC’s new Premier John Horgan.

Meggs, who’s been one of the most outspoken opponents of Uber, insists he won’t have that much power in Victoria.

“The policy will be made by the government, not by me, but it’s an issue that I think all the parties agree needs to be resolved. It’ll be an interesting discussion, however it unfolds, but it’s not up to me to decide a policy. That’s decided by John and his caucus in consultation with the Green Party, so we’ll see how that unfolds.”

NPA Councillor Melissa de Genova says the Vision Vancouver majority at City Hall has deliberately tried to keep ride-sharing services out of this city.

“And they have punted it back to the provincial government and said that they can’t do anything until the provincial government makes decisions.”

She’s also questioning Meggs’ suggestion he can do more for the people of Vancouver by taking a job in Victoria.

“Well, you’re taking from one area to give to another, so is that fair? I also would question how other municipalities would feel about that if he’s already playing favourites before he’s in the role.”

Meggs insists that decision won’t be influenced by him, but he says, “I have been concerned about Uber. I’m concerned as well, about the impact short-term rentals are having in the city of Vancouver, so some aspects of the new economy are very exciting for some people, but have down sides in terms of lost long term rental and things like that.”

Last month, an executive with Uber Canada sent NEWS 1130 a statement indicating the New Democrats, Greens and Liberals all promised to make ride-hailing services available in BC by the end of this year.