Iqaluit taxi fares climb 50 cents

Council narrowly passed an increase in cab fares in Iqaluit, despite some members protesting that the community should be consulted first.

Mayor Elisapee Sheutiapik cast the deciding vote at the council’s meeting on April 13, giving the green light to a 50-cent increase in the cost of a one-way taxi ride, bringing the fare to $5.

The change came after pressure from taxi companies who argue they’re feeling the squeeze of rising costs in insurance and repairs. Craig Dunphy, general manager of Pai-pa Taxi, said insurance has doubled in the past three years, reaching an average of $2,600 to $3,500 per year per cab.

Several councillors rejected the taxi companies’ numbers, including Simon Nattaq, who accused the drivers of trying to exploit their customers.

“I feel the taxi companies and drivers are taking advantage of the community,” Nattaq said in Inuktitut, adding that council should meet with residents before approving a fare hike.

Coun. Glenn Williams supported the change, noting that anyone who couldn’t afford the $5 fee could take the municipal bus instead.

Coun. Stu Kennedy also backed the increase, but suggested administration evaluate the taxi industry’s quality of service.

Taxi fares will remain $4.50 until the summer when council expects to approve a long-outstanding update to the municipal taxi bylaw.

The debate also cast doubt about whether taxis have been charging too much for long rides from the causeway to Apex or Road To Nowhere. All rides should be the same price, according to Iqaluit’s chief bylaw officer.

Taxi company administrators argue they’re allowed to charge double for the longer rides.