Torontonians may need to find alternative transportation for Valentine’s Day as ride-share drivers plan to strike in a fight for increased pay. The strike is part of a broader movement among ride-hailing and food delivery drivers in North America and Europe protesting low wages and poor working conditions.
The strike, organized by groups like Ridefair Toronto and the Rideshare Drivers Association of Ontario (RDAO), comes after a report revealed that Uber drivers in Toronto earn significantly below minimum wage after expenses. According to the report, drivers make around $6 an hour, far below Uber’s claimed earnings of $33.35 per engaged hour.
The groups argue that many drivers are unable to meet Ontario’s minimum wage standards and often end up losing money due to the costs associated with their work. They emphasize that gig workers like Uber drivers lack job security, vacation pay, and other benefits typically afforded to employees.
The strike is expected to take place in several cities, including Vancouver and Winnipeg, with drivers gathering at Nathan Phillip’s Square in Toronto before driving around downtown to raise awareness about their demands.
