Quebec taxi drivers, angry about a government bill that would overhaul their industry, are cancelling pressure tactics after a "dramatic incident" in which a driver harmed himself on live television.

The driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Operators have been trying to force the government to scrap Bill 17, which would deregulate much of the industry and open the door to ride-hailing services such as Uber.

On Friday, the plan was to offer free rides to some passengers using mobile apps, among other pressure tactics. That is no longer happening.

In a statement, Transport Minister François Bonnardel, who tabled the controversial bill last week, said he was "sincerely upset" by the incident, adding that he feels moved by the personal stories drivers are sharing in the media.

"Every day, I reiterate the importance of prioritizing an open dialogue in order to ensure a harmonious transition and to sustain the traditional taxi industry. Discussions are ongoing between [taxi] representatives and the government, and will continue in the coming weeks."

Under the proposed legislation, taxi permits would be abolished, territorial restrictions removed and a single set of requirements would be imposed on all operators.

Taxi drivers argue the law would bankrupt an industry already struggling under the weight of competing ride-hailing services. They say they are most concerned about what is going to happen to their permits.

Permits cost, on average, between $100,000 and $150,000. The worry is that even with $500 million the government earmarked to compensate drivers, drivers would still be out money.

Drivers across the province have been protesting the bill, holding strikes and disrupting traffic.