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“We think, that from a risk point of view, compliance is easier under a blanket insurance model,” said Schafer.

Lyft has also refused to operate in Winnipeg under the current insurance model.

MPI says its coverage options ensure other drivers don’t have to subsidize ride-share ones.

Manitoba Crown Services Minister Cliff Cullen indicated the model will stay in place.

“Manitoba Public Insurance has established a reasonable licensing and insurance plan that fits both the needs of the market and the needs of Manitobans, in terms of public safety,” wrote Cullen, in an emailed statement.

A TappCar spokesperson said his ride-sharing service is thriving under the existing rules, with an expansion into Steinbach scheduled to be announced Wednesday.

“We’ve had no issues at all with the current insurance model and we would consider it to be one of the best in the country,” said John Morris.

Morris said his company is now also exploring whether it could add a new transportation option in areas set to lose Greyhound Canada passenger bus routes at the end of October.

The CEO of Cowboy Taxi, which also operates in Winnipeg, said he considers the MPI model unique in offering companies of all sizes a chance to buy reasonably priced coverage.

“I hope Manitoba stays strong on this,” said Mo Benini, the company’s CEO.

Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman, however, said he’d still like to see the province and MPI collaborate with larger ride-sharing companies, so Winnipeggers can access their services.

“It’s the international brand and identification of a company like an Uber or a Lyft. Winnipeggers, when they go to other cities, are using those apps and have come to expect … that those modern tools are going to be available,” said Bowman.

jpursaga@postmedia.com

Twitter: @pursagawpgsun