Ministers Christian Dubé and Sonia LeBel appeared before the Gallant Commission on Friday to address the SAAQclic project controversy. Dubé, the former President of the Treasury Board, shared insights into the initiation of the CASA project, highlighting unexpected cost overruns that came to light through the Auditor General’s report.
The CASA project, inclusive of the SAAQclic platform, has surpassed initial cost estimates by $500 million, totaling a projected $1.1 billion expenditure. In a separate session, Sonia LeBel, Dubé’s successor, delved into concerns regarding staffing levels at the SAAQ for digital transformation, revealing challenges in meeting authorized targets and implementing reduction plans.
LeBel acknowledged the widespread difficulties faced amid ongoing workforce management issues, attributing some struggles to the aftermath of the pandemic. The commission’s attorney flagged discrepancies in staffing practices from 2020 to 2025, underscoring the need for improved oversight.
Former SAAQ CEO Éric Ducharme is slated to continue his testimony following the ministers’ appearances, shedding further light on the ongoing inquiry.
