STM paratransit users can not bring non-essential travel companions

Société de transport de Montréal (STM) paratransit customers can now bring non-essential travel companions on trips for any reason. The return of non-essential travel companions returned Sept. 30 and STM says it is part of its efforts to improve trips for vulnerable customers affected by the labor shortage in the taxi industry. 

It should also be noted that this measure may cause some delays. In addition, the STM will be accepting a higher volume of trips in the larger metropolitan area.

“Since we signed the new agreement with the eight taxi service providers who carry out 88% of customer trips, our paratransit vehicle capacity has increased, which is why we are able to announce today the return of non-essential travel companions,” says Marie-Claude Léonard, CEO of STM. “We are taking a step in the right direction toward reinstating our zero refusal policy. We understand and appreciate the significant impact this exceptional situation has had on our customers, and I assure you that all STM teams, including our partners, have been working together to resolve it as soon as possible.”

For the past several months, the STM has been working hard to keep its paratransit service active despite a major labor shortage in the taxi industry. On August 15, the STM had to implement several exceptional measures to mitigate the effects of the shortage and continue providing its paratransit service. On August 31, the STM and the eight taxi service providers with whom it does business reached an agreement to, among other things, maintain the current pool of drivers who provide paratransit services and attract new drivers to keep pace with growing ridership.

The STM understands that these measures have a significant impact on its customers and will continue to collaborate with its partners to find sustainable solutions, so that it can reinstate its zero refusal policy as quickly as possible.