Legal basis for Uber by 2016, say Brussels authorities

Authorities of the Brussels-Capital Region have said that they hope to have a legal framework ready by the beginning of 2016 for taxi services, including alternatives such as Uber. If Uber will agree to abide by the new regulations, the current ban will be lifted, and the service will be able to operate legally. There are approximately 700 drivers registered with Uber in Brussels.

Last week, four members of CD&V in the Flemish parliament called on Flanders’ public transport authority De Lijn to replace its expensive on-demand belbus service in rural areas with the Uber service. Among the conditions, they said, would be payment of social security, medical certification and a certificate of good behaviour from the police.

The conditions seem basic, and the possible gains for Uber attractive, but there is no guarantee the company will agree. Earlier this week, De Morgen reported that Uber drivers as reluctant to carry on if they are forced to pay tax on earnings. One man, a licensed taxi driver during the week, told the daily that he worked 10 hours at the weekend and took home €150, out of which he had to pay for petrol and maintenance of his car.

If Uber refuses to abide by the rules, Brussels warns, it will continue to be illegal, and measures will continue to be taken. Recently, five Uber cars were impounded when they were found operating at Brussels Airport. The drivers now face charges and possible confiscation of their vehicles.

Photo by Alexander Torrenegra/Wikimedia