Nathalie Tremblay, the former CEO of Quebec’s Société de l’assurance automobile (SAAQ), refutes allegations of mismanagement regarding a significant IT project that took place under her leadership.
In a move that raised eyebrows, the SAAQ opted to settle a $205 million dispute with its supplier LGS-SAP in private rather than disclosing an addendum in 2020.
Facing the daunting task of needing a minimum of 800,000 work hours to complete phase two of the project, the Crown corporation engaged in confidential negotiations. Ultimately, a decision was made to reinvest $135 million into the project, with the Alliance assuming responsibility for $70 million.
The agreement was authorized on behalf of the SAAQ by Karl Malenfant, the Vice President of Information Technology. While not directly faulting Malenfant, Tremblay expressed on Tuesday that she expected her team to provide her with a more comprehensive range of options and scenarios.
Expressing frustration with the Alliance, Tremblay reportedly vowed that no further funds would be allocated until a quality product was delivered.
During discussions with Commissioner Denis Gallant, Tremblay acknowledged that project costs had spiraled out of control, and there had been a lack of clear communication with elected officials on the Public Administration Committee.
The failed digital transition of the SAAQ is projected to impose a financial burden of at least $1.1 billion on taxpayers by 2027, surpassing initial estimates by $500 million, as per Quebec’s Auditor General.
