It is proposed to amend this section to require that drivers must produce this permit on demand from a police officer. This will help to ensure that only trained drivers will be operating these vehicles. Some vehicles continue to carry passengers with only a temporary approval. It is proposed to amend this section so that it is an offence to carry passengers unless the vehicle has passed a full safety inspection under the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act. Taxi Detail Contact Many customers do not realize that they may call the Police Department's Taxi Detail directly to lodge a complaint.
Complaints often come through third party information, which is difficult to verify.
Relevant information may not even be included in Police Department records, which is vital when dealing with a history of complaints against a particular individual. It is proposed that the tariff decal affixed to the rear side window be changed to list a complaint phone number for the Taxi Detail. In order to maximize the efficiency of the Taxi Detail, the police have requested that applicants provide a proof of employment letter from a licensed Vancouver taxicab company prior to the processing of the chauffeur's permit. This would minimize time spent with applicants who are not serious. There is general support for the recommendation in this report, although one company has raised concerns regarding the cost of the training course.