Quebec's auto insurance board closes Montreal service point over alleged corruption
Located in Montréal-Nord on Léger Blvd., the service point could see up to 300 clients per day
Quebec's automobile insurance board decided to abruptly shut down its Montréal-Nord service point on Tuesday morning after an administrative investigation uncovered corruption issues.
The Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) service point, located on Léger Boulevard, was overseen by a representative from the local chamber of commerce, the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Montréal-Nord (CCIMN).
In 2023, clients raised concerns that some employees at this service point were engaging in behavior that resembled financial corruption.
"Our administrative investigation service decided to assess whether these allegations were substantiated," said Gino Desrosiers, SAAQ spokesperson.
The investigation revealed serious issues, prompting a complaint to Quebec's anti-corruption unit, the Unité permanente anticorruption (UPAC).
"The situation was significant. It involved more than just one individual," Desrosiers added.
Desrosiers noted that the investigation led to the conclusion that trust between the CCIMN and the SAAQ had been compromised.
"As a result, we ended the business relationship," he said, clarifying that the allegations do not involve a breach of personal data.
"At no point was the confidentiality or integrity of client data compromised. We are addressing other types of behavior that warranted involving UPAC," he explained.
The SAAQ's senior management decided to close the service point, which catered to up to 300 clients daily.
The closure of the service point is final and not subject to appeal, Radio-Canada has learned.
UPAC spokesperson Mathieu Vidal confirmed to Radio-Canada that UPAC received a complaint from the SAAQ and is currently evaluating the situation. This evaluation might lead to a full investigation and potential charges.
In a written statement on Tuesday afternoon, the CCIMN expressed surprise at the service point's closure.
The CCIMN stated that it is collaborating closely with the SAAQ to clarify the circumstances of the event, emphasizing that it is not involved in the alleged corruption.
