Montreal anti-corruption squad integrated into UPAC

Montreal's anti-corruptionsquad (EPIM)will be integrated into UPAC, announced Mayor Denis Coderre and members of the provincial government today.

Coderremade the announcement alongsideStphane Bergeron, Quebec's Minister of Public Security and Jean-Franois Lise, minister responsible for the Montreal region,describingthis change as a way to improveefficiency in the fight against corruption.

EPIMwas created in January 2013, when20officers from the Montreal police forcewere assigned to investigate the administrative integrity of the City ofMontreal, with aparticular focus on themunicipal tendering process.

• Corruption announcement at Montreal City Hall

After the integration, squad members willworkwithUPACwhile still receiving theirsalaries from Montreal police.

Coderre said thisintegration with UPACwillenhance EPIM's independencefromthe municipal administration.

"This is a clarification of mandates, to send the message that we have a coherent plan," saidCoderre.

EPIM has a budget of $3 millionto investigate the awarding of contracts in Montreal, as well as elected officials and the city'sservice providers.

It also has theauthority to inspect construction sites.