Quebec Premier Testifies in Cost Overrun Scandal at Auto Insurance Board
Quebec Premier François Legault is set to testify at a public inquiry scrutinizing the cost overrun scandal at the province’s auto insurance board. The inquiry, led by Judge Denis Gallant, is investigating the creation of the online platform SAAQclic, which incurred overruns of $500 million or more.
Legault emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, “I was the one who launched a public inquiry; it’s crucial for Quebecers to understand what transpired.” Despite maintaining his innocence and claiming no prior knowledge of the overruns, Legault, along with his chief of staff and a former official, will testify.
The inquiry uncovered early warnings about escalating costs dating back to 2020 and a substantial shortfall in platform delivery in 2022. The botched rollout of the new online system by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec earlier in 2023 led to significant disruptions at service branches.
Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault faced scrutiny over her awareness of the cost overruns, revealing a lack of recollection during her testimony. The inquiry highlighted internal communication gaps and management issues within the organization, resulting in the reassignment of the auto insurance board’s CEO.
The ongoing inquiry, now extended until December 2025, could have political repercussions for Legault’s government leading up to the provincial election in 2026.
Keyphrase: Quebec auto insurance scandal
