Legault Reveals Late Awareness of SAAQclic Cost Overruns

QUEBEC CITY — Quebec Premier François Legault testified on February 2, 2025, that he only became aware of significant cost overruns related to the province’s auto insurance board during the previous month. His statements came during a public inquiry investigating the online platform known as SAAQclic, which is projected to exceed its initial budget by at least $500 million.

Legault emphasized that it is “not normal” for him to have been uninformed about the financial issues connected to SAAQclic before the Auditor General’s report was released in February. This report revealed that the total expenditure for the platform would surpass $1.1 billion.

Inconsistent Testimonies Raise Questions

The inquiry has raised serious questions about communication within the Quebec government. Previous testimonies indicated that Legault’s office may have been alerted as early as 2020 regarding potential risks of escalating costs. Witnesses suggested that the then top civil servant, Yves Ouellet, was informed in September 2022 of a shortfall amounting to $222 million for the SAAQclic platform.

Legault’s remarks and the conflicting testimonies highlight a significant gap in information dissemination within the province’s administration. The inquiry, which Legault initiated following the auditor general’s alarming findings, aims to dissect the circumstances surrounding the financial mismanagement and lack of transparency.

Impact of the Inquiry

The investigation into SAAQclic is crucial given the platform’s central role in managing auto insurance in Quebec. As the inquiry progresses, it is expected to shed light on accountability mechanisms within the provincial government and the management of public funds. Observers argue that the outcome could influence future governance practices and public trust in governmental operations.

As the inquiry continues, further testimonies are anticipated, which may provide additional insights into the alleged mismanagement of funds and the decision-making processes that led to such substantial overruns. The public and stakeholders await updates that could potentially reshape the landscape of public sector accountability in Quebec.

This report was first published by The Canadian Press on September 2, 2025.