Quebec's SAAQ Under Scrutiny: Documents Handed Over to Anti-Corruption Unit in Major Tender Probe

Quebec's automobile insurance board, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), finds itself at the heart of a significant anti-corruption probe. In a move underscoring the seriousness of the allegations, the SAAQ has confirmed handing over a trove of documents to the province's anti-corruption unit, UPAC (Unité permanente anticorruption).

This development is part of an ongoing investigation into a substantial call for tenders for a new digital platform, a project valued at a staggering $475 million.

The spotlight is firmly fixed on a contract awarded in 2023 to a consortium comprising tech giants DXC Technology and CGI. This lucrative deal was for the development of a modern digital system designed to manage driver's licenses and vehicle registrations – a crucial overhaul for the SAAQ, aiming to replace its decades-old, 40-year-old IT infrastructure.

Known as "S.P.I.N." (Système de permis et d'immatriculation numériques), the project promised a leap forward in public service efficiency.

However, the smooth road to modernization hit a major bump when news of UPAC's involvement broke in May 2024. Investigative reports by La Presse revealed that the anti-corruption unit had conducted extensive searches, not just at SAAQ offices, but also within the Ministry of Transport, the Public Security Ministry, and the Treasury Board.

These coordinated raids signaled a widespread inquiry into the procurement process itself.

UPAC's search warrants, which came to light during the investigation, painted a concerning picture. They pointed to potential "irregularities" in the tender process, specifically citing allegations of favouritism and possible conflicts of interest.

One particularly thorny issue highlighted was the movement of a former SAAQ official. This individual, who had been intimately involved in the development and oversight of the S.P.I.N. project within the SAAQ, subsequently left to join DXC Technology – a key member of the very consortium that ultimately secured the massive contract.

Such a "revolving door" scenario immediately raises red flags regarding transparency and fair competition in public contracts.

The SAAQ has publicly affirmed its full cooperation with UPAC, reiterating its commitment to assisting the investigation in every possible way. While the probe unfolds, it casts a shadow over a vital public modernization initiative and underscores the constant need for vigilance and accountability in how significant public funds are allocated.

The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for public trust and the integrity of government procurement processes in Quebec.