François Legault Testifies at SAAQclic Inquiry Amid $500M Scandal

UPDATE: All eyes are on Quebec Premier François Legault as he takes the stand today at the urgent public inquiry into the staggering $500 million cost overrun scandal surrounding the province’s auto insurance board, SAAQclic. This inquiry, led by Judge Denis Gallant, is investigating the financial mismanagement that has left Quebecers questioning accountability in their government.

Legault, who launched this public inquiry himself, stated, “It’s important that Quebecers know exactly what happened.” His testimony comes after reports revealed that the cost of the online platform has ballooned to over $1.1 billion, sparking public outrage and demands for transparency.

Critical details emerged during the inquiry that suggest Legault’s office was warned about possible cost overruns as early as 2020. Testimony revealed that Yves Ouellet, a former general secretary of the executive council, was made aware of a shocking $222 million shortfall in September 2022. These revelations raise serious questions about the leadership and oversight of the project.

Earlier this year, the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec faced massive backlash after the rollout of SAAQclic resulted in extensive delays and long lines across service branches. The inquiry has been ongoing since April 2025 and has already heard from various officials, including Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault, who admitted to being aware of cost issues but failed to act decisively.

“Has anyone worried about the mess I’ve been cleaning up for the past two years because of the SAAQ? I don’t get that impression,” Guilbault stated during her testimony.

The inquiry is poised to have significant political repercussions, especially with the next provincial election scheduled for October 2026. The final report from the inquiry is due on December 15, 2025, and could hold devastating implications for Legault’s government.

As the inquiry continues, it is crucial for Quebecers to stay informed about the unfolding developments. The potential fallout from today’s testimony could reshape the political landscape in the province, as public trust hangs in the balance. Observers are keenly watching how Legault and his senior aides address these mounting allegations of mismanagement and lack of oversight.

With the inquiry focusing on high-ranking officials, including Legault’s chief of staff Martin Koskinen and former ministers, it is clear that the implications of this scandal reach far beyond financial figures. The very integrity of the provincial government is at stake, and citizens are demanding answers.

Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops throughout the day. The urgency of this inquiry reflects a broader call for accountability in government spending and management—issues that resonate deeply with taxpayers across Quebec.