Uber Technologies Inc. wants provinces to force the tech giant and other app-based companies to offer gig workers some benefits through a new proposal, but an advocacy group says the plan will still leave them paid less than minimum wage and with no job security.

Uber’s pitch was unveiled Wednesday and is called Flexible Work+. It asks provinces to require app-based gig employers to accrue self-directed benefit funds that can be dispersed to drivers for prescriptions, dental and vision care and provide safety training and tools like reflective vests.

Source: The Canadian Press

Date: March 11th, 2021

Link: https://www.thestar.com/business/2021/03/10/uber-canada-seeks-labour-model-allowing-it-to-provide-benefits-to-drivers-couriers.html

Discussion

1. What is a gig worker, and why don’t companies pay them like regular employees?
2. Why is Uber trying to force itself, “and other app-based companies” to help it’s gig workers?