The Big Five Podcast SAAQclic, lies, and videotape. Plus: Why one 22-year-old Quebecer got a vasectomy
Feb 17, 2026
Graham Singh, pastor in downtown Montreal offering community and ethical perspective, and Jonathan Kalles, public affairs VP and former political adviser, discuss the Gallant report on the SAAQclic deception and who should be held accountable. They debate a proposed sugary-drink tax to fund services and react to a 22-year-old Quebecer’s vasectomy story and what it says about generational shifts.
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Blame Lies, Not Just Bureaucracy
- The Gallant report blames SAAQclic officials for lying and hiding cost overruns from the Quebec government.
- Jonathan Kalles warns this scandal may be politically brushed aside without systemic change.
Reports Can Let Governments Off The Hook
- Elias Makos notes governments may welcome reports that shift blame to contractors rather than themselves.
- He cautions centralized agencies can sometimes hide problems instead of creating transparency.
Break Down Department Silos
- Jonathan Kalles urges better interdepartmental communication to prevent siloed failures.
- He says oversight must connect departments to stop finger-pointing when projects go wrong.