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Ex-Minister Says He Knew in 2021 SAAQclic Was Over Budget as Legault Set to Testify

The disclosure sharpens scrutiny of a digital overhaul costing more than $1.1 billion.

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Quebec Minister Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Technology Eric Caire speaks at a news conference on artificial intelligence, in Quebec City, Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot
Quebec Premier François Legault makes an announcement in Contrecoeur, Que., on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. Legault is scheduled to announce on Tuesday his province's response to the start to the trade war with the United States. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

Overview

  • Former cybersecurity minister Éric Caire testified he knew in 2021 the SAAQ’s IT project was over budget, citing a September 2021 email, though he said he did not know the full extent.
  • Quebec’s auditor general reported in February that the SAAQclic platform cost the province more than $1.1 billion, at least $500 million above the plan.
  • Premier François Legault will appear before the Gallant Commission on Sept. 2, confirmed by his office and the inquiry.
  • Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault acknowledged she was aware costs were rising in 2023, and an email disclosed by the inquiry shows she urged leadership changes at the SAAQ in December 2024.
  • Caire resigned following the auditor’s report, SAAQ CEO Éric Ducharme was reassigned in July, and documents indicate former top civil servant Yves Ouellet was told in September 2022 of a $222-million shortfall.