B.C. Uber drivers claim they were fired after refusing to take passengers breaking COVID-19 rules, union says

A B.C. union has filed an unfair labour practice complaint against Uber, claiming three drivers were fired after refusing unsafe work when some customers refused to follow COVID-19 rules.

A B.C. union has filed an unfair labour practice complaint against Uber, claiming three drivers were fired after refusing unsafe work when some customers refused to follow COVID-19 rules.

In a statement Thursday, UFCW 1518 said it's filing the complaint to B.C.'s Labour Relations Board on behalf of multiple drivers. In one incident, the union said a customer reportedly threatened a driver with a complaint and became violent after being asked to wear a mask while in the vehicle. The driver called the police, who removed the customer from the car.

"In another incident, a driver refused to take four passengers in his vehicle as this violated Uber's explicit COVID-19 safety regulations," the union said. "The driver believes that the customer who ordered the trip retaliated against him by leaving a bad review and rating."

In general, the drivers reported they "frequently" dealt with customers who were intoxicated, rude, demanding and insulting, the union said. In multiple incidents, the drivers were threatened with complaints against them.

The individuals involved had "strong driving records," the union said, but after complaints were filed their Uber apps were reportedly deactivated from their phones.

"They attempted to reach Uber support to dispute the complaints but were unable to learn more or tell their side of the story," the union's statement said. "Uber support did not follow up on requests for review or make further attempts to contact the drivers."

CTV News Vancouver has reached out to Uber for comment on the claims.