Yellowknife (Oct 31/03) - Shouts of anger erupted in council chambers Monday during a discussion about the city's cab industry.

Cabbies loudly disagreed with Coun. Kevin O'Reilly that two out of the city's three cab companies back changes to the Livery Licence bylaw.

John Bastas, a shareholder in Diamond Cabs, said he is opposed to replacing the current six-month residency requirement with a test for drivers. "They won't know the city and they'll overcharge their customers," Bastas said.

Waiting for six months will not hamper business and the requirement is good for his business, he said.

Coun. Alan Woytuik is in favour of replacing the wait with a test.

"A test ensures drivers know the city," Woytuik said.

Coun. Dave McCann said the proposed amendment is causing a lot of nervousness in the community.

"We have to define what we're talking about," he said. "The purpose of it was to ensure drivers had proper experience. Knowledge is the criteria."

Coun. Robert Hawkins questioned why the city regulates the cab industry.

Coun. Wendy Bisaro said the issue should be sent back to committee for further discussion.