The company accepted almost all the municipal conditions, but rejected the idea of limiting the number of licenses
From Uber they warn that the measure represents a setback in terms of labor inclusion and access to mobility. They insist that there is no technical basis for establishing this limit. They warn that it would break the logic of flexible demand that sustains this type of service.
"The message we can convey is the approval of the ordinance. Those transportation workers who operate through applications, as well as the companies dedicated to that service, will be able to work legally, they will be able to work within a regulatory framework that supports them," stated pro-government councilman Martín Simonian.
Restricting the number of drivers through a rigid quota would mean leaving out 77% of those who currently find a source of income in Uber. Instead of promoting labor inclusion, the measure restricts access to a service already chosen by more than 400,000 users in Córdoba. Regulation can't become an obstacle that benefits a few and punishes those who simply want to work.
The intention to limit licenses doesn't respond to a technical criterion or a real need of the mobility system. It is a political decision that serves the interests of Mayor Passerini, who seeks to protect one of his funds: that of traditional transportation. Instead of adapting to change, the Municipality clings to a model that is increasingly less efficient and less chosen by people in Córdoba, to the detriment of thousands of workers and users.
Finally, representatives from Uber and municipal authorities of Córdoba held their first official meeting this Friday. The objective was to begin defining a legal framework for the operation of electronic transportation platforms. The dialogue opens a new stage after years of legal disputes and tensions with the sector.
Uber agreed with most of the requirements demanded by the city to operate legally. They agreed to register with ARCA, register a legal address, submit insurance and contracts, and comply with vehicle standards. They also committed to applying for municipal authorization and to establishing themselves as a legal entity.
The only point of disagreement was the municipality's intention to limit the number of licenses. According to reports, Uber rejected this clause, considering it harmful to workers and users. Negotiations will continue in upcoming meetings.
The company stated that the proposal to grant only 3,998 licenses would leave 77% of current drivers out of work. If approved, 8 out of 10 drivers currently providing the service would be excluded. In addition, more than 400,000 users would see their access to the platform restricted.
