1. The ICBC rates within the last two years have escalated beyond belief.  The Association delegation had two meetings with ICBC (on December 6^th, 2002 & January 9^th, 2003).
2. This rate increase has severely affected most of the taxi companies, specifically the Lower Mainland companies.  It is of utmost concern for the Association as how to resolve this very serious matter concerning ICBC rates.  The Association would like to find a resolution in order to avoid an unpleasant situation.
3. Compare Taxi Premiums from 2002 versus 2003 click following the link………....Taxi Premium Comparison 2002 versus 2002.
4. Mohan Kang wrote a letter to Honorable Judith Reid on September 14, 2003 concerning the pirate taxi issue.  He emphasized the fact that the pirate taxi operators are seldom caught and successfully prosecuted.  While higher fines maybe part of an overall solution, we believe that there has to be other, more permanent steps to eradicate this problem.  It was suggested that a serious look must be taken at amending the Motor Carrier Act & Regulations with a view to empowering the Motor Carrier authorities and the police forces to impound and sell the vehicle of any “bandit operator”.  Impounding vehicles of those found guilty of providing taxi services without benefit of a Motor Carrier licenses will have a two fold effect:

• It will immediately remove a vehicle that is operating on the road without benefit of a Motor Carrier License or National Safety Code certificate from the road.
• If convicted and the vehicle is sold, the penalty would be sufficiently large as to serve as a credible deterrent to current and potential illegal operators.

Taking these steps will contribute to a more professional, safe, and accountable taxi industry which will be able to better service the general public.  Enhanced enforcement represents a true win-win-win solution for government, taxi industry, and the general public.