Amid ongoing grievances over working conditions and tax management, Uber drivers are considering striking to protest the company's practice.
The primary complaint centers around a sudden and unexplained increase in personal income tax deductions from employees' salaries. Another key issue is the lack of compensation for night shifts. The workers are also seeking legal advice to ensure the strike follows the necessary procedures.
José Martínez, union representative for Moovecars in Tenerife, has publicly criticized the conditions faced by Uber workers operating with VTC licenses on the island. He revealed that the company, which began operations with 30 Audi A6 cars for Uber Black, now only has 4 or 5 functional vehicles due to a lack of maintenance, particularly with recurring gearbox issues
Martínez also highlighted the strain on employees, with 10 workers leaving due to stress. Despite the company offering performance-based incentives, the shortage of vehicles means employees cannot access these benefits, and many are left with minimum wages.
Martínez also accused the company of discriminatory labor practices, claiming favoritism towards certain drivers, and questioned the business model that relies on fleet ownership rather than allowing individuals to obtain VTC licenses. He pointed out that, despite higher fares, Uber Black services are in high demand among tourists due to a shortage of taxis. Martínez criticized both the company's management and the lack of union support for workers, calling for stronger advocacy on behalf of employees facing low wages and poor working conditions.
Read on : in Spanish