The long-awaited report into the $500 million cost-overrun scandal at Quebec's auto insurance board is scheduled to be publicly released on February 16. This inquiry, presided over by Judge Denis Gallant, included 75 days of hearings in 2025, during which more than 130 witnesses, including Premier François Legault, testified about the alarming cost overruns associated with a new digital platform launched by the board. Allegations of mismanagement and inadequate communication were central to the testimonies, with Legault emphasizing that he was not informed about the project’s financial issues until it was too late.

The auditor general's report ignited this inquiry, revealing that estimates for the digital project had ballooned to at least $1.1 billion by 2027, an increase of $500 million from initial projections. This revelation followed a troubled rollout of the digital platform in 2023, which had significant repercussions for residents of Quebec. Long lines at insurance board branches became a familiar sight as the public faced delays in accessing essential services, such as vehicle registration and road tests, raising questions about the competency of the state-run corporation.

As the inquiry nears conclusion with the release of the final report, there is widespread anticipation regarding the recommendations that may arise from the findings. These findings could lead to significant changes in operational practices at the auto insurance board and might hold individuals accountable for the mismanagement of funds intended for public service improvements. The implications of the report could resonate beyond Quebec, potentially influencing governance structures and accountability frameworks in similar state-operated entities across Canada.