Taxi drivers in conflict with taxi regulations

Some Calgary taxi drivers have started removing their city-issued taxi plates to protest against the taxi licensing system.

The number of taxi permits has been frozen since 1986 and many drivers don't want to pay brokers for licences.

Elizabeth Fielding says she's already removed her plate and will soon take to the streets as an independent. "My car still has a top light that belongs to me," she says. "When I purchased the vehicle, the top light, the radio, the meter, all came with the purchase price."

However, the penalty for driving without a taxi plate is $30. And taxi commission officials say the fine escalates with the number of infractions.

Norm Goodale, chair of the taxi commission, says his employees will be looking for drivers operating without the city plates.

"Unfortunately the drivers are trying to make a point, which we fully understand, but we have to operate within the Calgary bylaws as they stand at the moment."

Calgary city council will strike a committee this fall to look at the issues surrounding taxis and licensing.