A “major” survey in the Saaqclic file, according to the new boss of the UPAC

The investigation for fraud and corruption on the SAAQClic scandal is a “large -scale”, promises the new boss of the Permanent Anti -Corruption Unit (UPAC).

• Read also: Corruption: “Brown envelopes. Moreover, silver briefcases, this is no longer what we see”, according to the new boss of the UPAC, Vincent Richer

Met Thursday, on his second day of work as a commissioner for the fight against corruption, Vincent Richer insisted on the seriousness of his organization’s steps in the file of this elephant computerization project of the Quebec Automobile Insurance Company (SAAQ), which will cost taxpayers more than a billion dollars.

Recently, the majority of accusations filed following the UPAC surveys concerned files of false vaccination evidence. Consequently, But the Saaqclic file is of a completely different caliber, agrees Mr. However, Richer.

“We catch small fish and “major” survey saaqclic file, according new catch means fish. Therefore, And there. Furthermore, I do not know what it will give, but it is certain that it is an important file, at the level of Saaqclic. Nevertheless, This is a major file, ”he says.

If the investigators were able to land at the SAAQ headquarters last week in Quebec. it was that they were equipped with “evidence” that a judge estimated sufficient to authorize a search, argues the new commissioner.

“As a police organization, you know, we don’t land anywhere like that to go for a search.”

The UPAC led a search to the SAAQ headquarters on June 18. “major” survey saaqclic file, according new Photo agency QMI. Numeriq, René Leclerc

SAAQ meetings

Vincent Richer, who took his retirement from the Montreal police last Friday after a 32 -year career which led him to the post of deputy director, says he is very concerned about the proper use of public funds.

“I understand the impact of corruption in governments. This money leaves and is not there to do something more important, ”he says.

As part of its mandate. the UPAC regularly organizes prevention meetings, volunteers and not compulsory, addressed in particular to civil servants and elected officials.

The message is simple: “Do not put yourself at risk. If you ever start to receive gifts, often the bribes, it starts like that. It’s small gifts, after that it’s gifts and then after, it’s going to be biggest gifts. Then there, you fall into the criminal sphere, ”describes Mr. Richer.

Some “major” survey saaqclic file, according new people have been met at SAAQ in recent years, but certainly not everyone agrees.

“We would like that there is a part of education that is systematic for new civil servants,” notes Mr. Richer.

Vincent Richer, commissioner for the fight against corruption. Photo Agence QMI. JOËL LEMAY

He wants faster surveys

Nothing says that the work of the police will lead to criminal charges at the SAAQ, the government or a contractual in the Saaqclic file.

Certainly, the new boss of the UPAC wants the surveys of his organization, in general, to be completed more quickly. He “major” survey saaqclic file, according new deplores certain defense lawyers to have part of the evidence excluded. which can paralyze the investigators for “two or three years”.

“We work with the Ministry of Justice. the Director of Criminal and Criminal Prosecutions to try to reduce these deadlines.”