We should know within six months from now how many companies paid back money from public contracts obtained through fraud and collusion and how much they paid back.
The voluntary payback program introduced two years ago ended yesterday.
The program offered companies a way to pay back defrauded funds to avoid civil lawsuits but they can still face criminal charges.
About 15 companies have already said publicly they'll be reimbursing the government and municipalities.
François Rolland, the retired Quebec Superior Court Justice overseeing the program, said their goals were surpassed but couldn't provide specifics since it's only Quebec's justice minister who will reveal the final numbers in the next six months.
Rolland said it's positive for the government, municipalities and taxpayers because they recover money and avoid lengthy and costly lawsuits, and the companies can still face lawsuits if they haven't reached a settlement through this program.
The companies have to pay at least 20 per cent of the contracts plus a 10 per cent administrative fee.
Large companies have already paid or are in the process of paying back the money; smaller companies have five years to pay sums owing in instalments.