SAAQ Denies Cost Surge Allegations Amid Québec’s Awareness
The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is currently facing intense scrutiny over allegations of misleading information regarding project costs tied to its digital transformation initiative, known as the Carrefour des services d’affaires (CASA). According to a report released by Commissioner Denis Gallant, the agency has provided misleading updates for nearly a decade.
SAAQ’s Digital Transformation Under Fire
Initiated in 2014, the CASA project aimed to enhance digital services, including the SAAQclic platform. In 2017, the SAAQ awarded a contract worth $458 million to develop this ambitious project. However, the report asserts that it was “too large, too ambitious, and required rapid development.”
Cost Overruns and Miscommunication
The inquiry revealed significant cost overruns and a lack of transparency from the SAAQ regarding the project’s progress. The commission found that the SAAQ misled both parliamentarians and ministers about the state of CASA. They maintained a long-term relationship with a single provider, limiting their options in the event of disputes.
- Project initiated: 2014
- Initial budget: $375 million
- Revised budget: $682 million by September 2020
- Total projected cost by 2027: $1.1 billion
Leadership Responsibility
Key figures involved in the project have come under fire, particularly Karl Malenfant, the project’s architect. The report criticized internal controls at SAAQ, indicating they were undermined during Malenfant’s leadership.
The board of directors received adequate information during critical moments but failed to address the diminishing benefits of the program. Under Éric Ducharme’s leadership, communications improved, but problems persisted. Ducharme was eventually dismissed in July 2023.
Political Fallout
Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault and Premier François Legault stated they were unaware of the escalating costs until a February 2025 report surfaced. However, the commission concluded that Ducharme had informed them of the surging expenses earlier in his tenure. In contrast, former Transport Minister François Bonnardel learned of the total project costs only in 2021.
Future Implications
The commission’s findings align with those of the Québec Auditor General, emphasizing discrepancies in the budgeting methodologies. Despite these revelations, the projected total cost remains consistent, indicating that the financial management surrounding CASA will continue to warrant scrutiny as the project moves forward.
In conclusion, the SAAQ has a pressing need to restore trust with the public and government officials. The allegations of deceptive practices reflect poorly on the agency’s governance and raise concerns about accountability for future projects.
