Quebec’s anti-corruption unit has searched the headquarters of the province’s automobile insurance board, as scrutiny continues over the agency’s costly digital transformation project.
The search comes amid ongoing controversy linked to the rollout of SAAQclic, an online platform designed to modernize services such as driver’s licence renewals, road test scheduling, and the province’s no-fault insurance system. A report from the auditor general earlier this year found the platform cost $1.1 billion, which is $500 million more than originally expected.
The auditor general also concluded that $222 million in cost overruns had been broken into smaller line items to avoid public and political scrutiny. The findings prompted calls for increased transparency and accountability from several opposition parties.
The Unité permanente anticorruption (UPAC) confirmed the search took place at the offices of the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) in Quebec City. However, it declined to provide further details. In a statement, the unit said searches are generally conducted to gather evidence that could support or disprove allegations of wrongdoing.
Problems with SAAQclic first surfaced in early 2023 when the platform’s launch led to long wait times at service centres and widespread complaints from users. The backlash led the provincial government to suspend a separate facial-recognition project that was being planned by the board.
In February 2025, Éric Caire stepped down as minister of cybersecurity and digital technology. While denying personal wrongdoing, Caire said the public reaction had become a distraction to government work. Opposition figures have since questioned whether he played a role in concealing the full extent of the platform’s costs, claims he has rejected.
Premier François Legault initially resisted calls for a formal investigation but later announced a public inquiry into the matter. He has since appointed MNA Gilles Bélanger as Caire’s replacement.
The inquiry remains ongoing, and the SAAQ platform continues to be a focus of public and political attention. Opposition parties have suggested the situation reflects broader issues in the province’s management of major digital infrastructure projects.
