(April 27, 2022) – Loyola O’Driscoll, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister for Service NL and MHA for Ferryland, says he’s hearing concerns from insurance companies and residents about a lack of detail surrounding the plan to bring Turo ride sharing to Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The tourism industry needs as much support as possible, so we welcome the news of ride sharing in our province. However, it’s clear the Minister and her department did not do their homework before making the announcement yesterday,” said O’Driscoll.

“I’m hearing confusion and concerns about a lack of insurance options available in Newfoundland and Labrador, which means either being denied coverage or very expensive premiums. There are concerns about how insurance provided by Turo will interact with existing personal insurance. On top of that, I’ve heard of a quote as high as $12,000 annually for the necessary personal insurance if someone wishes to rent their vehicle through Turo. It means the program could be out of reach for many in the province.”

O’Driscoll says it’s another example of government missing the details of important announcements.

“Insurance companies were blindsided by yesterday’s announcement when they should have been the first phone calls made to ensure affordable coverage is possible in the province. Now they’re left scrambling to come up with options,” said O’Driscoll.

“Yet again, this government is worried more about their photo ops then about the details. Whether it’s long term care in Central Newfoundland or the renaming of a lake, the important details seem forgotten by this government. The Minister needs to explain to the province how this major issues will be addressed.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca