Toronto taxi rides to become more expensive

CBC News
June 25, 2008

Toronto taxicab fares are going up in mid-July.

Cab drivers asked the city for the increase, citing increased gas prices and saying the present fares aren't enough to cover their costs.

The vote by council Tuesday night was unanimous.

"It's just a necessity to keep the industry going," said Coun. Howard Moscoe.

"And don't blame the poor cab driver for this, I mean we're all cursing the outcome. You know Esso made $52 billion in profits last year and the cab driver shouldn't bear the brunt of the blame."

The drop fare, or the fare a customer pays before the cab goes anywhere, will now start at $4, up from $3.

The per kilometre rate will go up to 25 cents for every 155 metres instead of 25 cents for every 170 metres.

The industry estimates that when the price change takes effect, a $10 cab ride will increase to $11.75.

The flat rate to the airport will not increase.