Uber fights against upcoming Quebec legislation

Uber says the end is nigh forits ride-hailing service in Quebec as the provincial government gears up to table legislation on the taxi industry.

The company behind themobile app, whichallows drivers without taxi licenses to offer rides,has launched a campaign in the hopeof saving itself.

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Jean-Nicolas Guillemette, general manager for Uber Quebec,is calling on users towrite provincial Transport Minister Jacques Daoustto allow the serviceto continue operating.

"The situation is critical and we need your help," Guillemettesaid in a statement being circulated on social media.

If Quebec moves forward with its plan then Uber could be forced to leave the province by summer, says the company.

'That's their decision'

The provincial government is expected to table legislation on May 12 but Daoustsays Uber doesn't necessarily have to leave Quebec.

"If they want to respect the laws, if they want to pay taxes then they are most welcome," Daoustsaid.

"If they want to leave because they have to pay taxes then that's their decision, not my decision."

Over the last few months, Quebec taxi drivers have called on the government to take action againstUberas it continues to expand across the province and the country.

Frustrated taxi drivers have threatened to block streets, withhold income taxes and hold strikes.

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Details of the proposed legislation have yet to be unveiled, but Daoustsaid he expected it would be supported by theopposition parties.