Dear Editor:
Greece is one of the most highly regulated countries in the world, which is why its economy has become so uncompetitive.
I understand that, for instance, the number of truck drivers is strictly limited and that truck driving permits can be traded and are worth hundreds of thousands of Euros. The Greeks are now being forced to open up their labour market to at least freer trade, and they are resisting all the way.
Canada does much better than Greece, and, with a few exceptions, we have a relatively unrestricted labour market and as a result a much more vibrant economy.
One of the few exceptions is the taxicab business. Why should a provincial board have the authority to limit the number of taxi licences and dictate what fares they can charge?
By all means be very careful in licensing drivers to ensure they are of good character and competent drivers and make sure their cars are in good running order and safe.
But why should an applicant for a licence have to demonstrate that issuing it is in the public interest? Issue licences to all qualified applicants and let the market decide on the price and how many cabs should stay in business.
That's what happens in other trades and businesses. If I proposed a similar system for truck drivers or hairdressers, people would think I was crazy.
The current system stifles competition and results in higher prices and poor service. It's time to get rid of this dinosaur and bring in taxicab free trade.
Garth M. Evans, Burnaby
