Montreal’s SAAQ faces AMP scrutiny over SAAQclic project mismanagement, with costs rising to $1.1B and service disruptions reported
AMP Accuses SAAQ of Management Shortcomings
The Autorité des marchés publics (AMP) has accused the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) of several management issues related to the SAAQclic project. These issues “contradict the responsible management of public funds and undermine the principles of integrity, transparency, and fair competition.”
Identified Shortcomings
The AMP cites the following shortcomings:
| Shortcoming | Description |
|---|---|
| Deficient Planning | Issues in needs assessment, market analysis, and cost estimation. |
| Irregularities | Problems in the training and work of the Selection Committee. |
| Contract Modifications | Changes to essential elements of the framework contract affecting work nature and cost. |
| Requirement Splitting | Dividing requirements to evade accountability obligations. |
AMP’s Orders to SAAQ
The AMP has ordered the SAAQ to conduct a real-time audit by its internal auditors on the framework agreement and related contracts. The SAAQ must inform the AMP of the results every six months.
Additionally, the SAAQ must notify the AMP about its plans for deliveries that were not made but were included in the framework agreement.
Impact of SAAQclic Launch
The launch of the SAAQclic platform in February 2023 faced significant glitches, leading to long lines at service points.
The SAAQ’s digital transformation is projected to cost taxpayers at least $1.1 billion, which is $500 million more than initially expected, according to the Auditor General of Quebec.
