Opposition Leader Claims Premier Is In Crisis Over NB Power Deal

(Provincial Conservative Leader David Alward)

(File Photo)

Provincial Conservative Leader David Alward is renewing his call for an election over the NB Power deal with Hydro Quebec while claiming Premier Shawn Graham finds himself with an internal crisis on his hands. This follows the departure from cabinet of Provincial Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson who was asked to resign over his position that a public referendum should be held on the revised NB Power agreement.
Alward says the Premier has suffered a direct attack on his leadership over the deal and demonstrates there is not unanimous support within the Liberal caucus for it.
Alward also charges Graham kept his caucus and cabinet in the dark about the deal until it was made public last October.

Man To Be In Court For Shooting In Lower Norton

A 41 year old man from Erbs Cove is going to be in front of a judge this morning in relation to a shooting in Lower Norton. The man, whose name has not been released, will be in Hampton Provincial Court to face a charge in connection to the shooting of a 42 year old man late last week.
The victim was taken to the Regional Hospital on Friday with a gunshot wound and injuries that were believed to be serious.
The Mounties are looking for additional information on the case, and can be contacted at 832-5566 or through Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Public Forums on Proposed NB Power Sale Tonight

The UNB Saint John Faculty of Arts is sponsoring a public forum on the NB Power-Hydro Quebec issue tonight. The speakers will be Prof. Yves Gagnon, Tom Mann who is coordinator for the Coalition of New Brunswickers and professor Greg Marquis. Professor Rob Moir tells CHSJ News, they hope to have an open discussion on the issue. Once the speakers have made their presentations, anyone on hand will have a chance to ask a question. Things gets started at seven o'clock in room 104 Oland Hall.
Along with the public forum at U-N-B Saint John, Qusipamsis M-L-A and Health Minister Mary Schryer will be hosting a public information meeting to discuss the revised agreement to sell some of the assets of NB Power to Hydro Quebec. Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir will be on hand as well. It's scheduled to get underway at 7:00 in St. Mark's Church on the Pettingill Road.

Cost Overruns With Point Lepreau Refurbishment

(Saint John M-P Rodney Weston)

(File Photo)

With the Province threatening court action against Atomic Energy Limited of Canada for cost over-runs at Point Lepreau, the MP for Saint John says a solution is on the table. Rodney Weston says in a recent meeting with Energy Minister Keir, he told him a solution can be find through proper channels.
Weston says he has been told Coleson Cove was shut down last summer so why were we buying replacement power for the refit to begin with? He adds the onus is on the Province and or NB Power to prove that AECL did not live up to it's terms of the contract.

Trauma Care Report To Be Released

(Rothesay M-L-A and Opposition Healthcare Critic Margaret Ann Blaney)

(File Photo)

Provincial Health Minister Mary Schryer is expected to release a report this mlorning on trauma services in the province and how they're going to be made better. The Opposition's Healthcare Critic, Margaret Ann Blaney tells CHSJ News the recommendations should have been implemented months ago especially after last week's revelation of a 12 hour delay in getting emergency treatment for a Bathurst woman. Blaney goes on to say the report that is to be released has been characterised as "the Holy Grail" of trauma care and doctors have become frustrated with the delay.

Doctor Fighting to Keep CBC Facility

Health Minister Mary Schyrer has some support in a city doctor who is fighting to keep the Canadian Blood Services operation right here at here and even expand it.

Dr. Andrea Garland tells CHSJ News she disagrees that opponets of the move to Dartmouth are flogging a dead horse because it seems to be a done deal.
Garland calls Canadian Blood Services an integral part of our provincial health care system.

Meeting Yields No Major Breakthroughs on Blood Distribution Centre Move

With construction of a new distribution center continuing in Dartmouth, the future of the Canadian Blood Services facility on University Avenue appears to be sealed. A meeting two weeks ago in Fredericton between doctors and officials from CBS yielded no major break-throughs and Health Minister Mary Schryer tells CHSJ News, the Province continues to support doctors:

Minister Schryer adds there is word the doctors are looking at forming a committee among themselves to go along with the non-partisan task force.

Final Day to Vote for Monopoly Spot

Today is the final day to cast your vote on-line to get Saint John on the Monopoly Board. Saint John MP Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News, he was keeping close tabs on the web-site to see how the voting was coming along until they took it off to ""heighten"" the suprise:
Even though on-line voting ends tonight, you can still cast a write in ballot for a wild card spot either Baltic or Mediterranean Avenues. The on-line voting is at monopolyvote.ca with 20 cities to be chosen for a spot on the board.

Church Officials Do Not Want To Be A Heritage Site

The Stone Church Vestry is asking not to be considered as part of the city heritage area.

The church on Carleton Street is already considered a National Historic site by the federal government and are not interested in becoming a city site. Arch Deacon David Edwards says they are not opposed to heritage sites but if the church is a city site, it could prevent future redevelopment.
Edwards adds the church is fine with the area becoming a heritage zone as long as the Stone Church isn't apart of it.

Skate to Care Fastly Approaching

In less than a week, Harbour Station will play host to the 23rd edition of Investors Group Skate to Care. Katie Emreich is a teacher at Kennebecasis Valley High and has been participating in the event since she was 14. Emreich tells CHSJ News, she lost an uncle to suicide when she was 12: This is the second year that Emreich is captaining a team from the high school and loves the fact her students are taking part and getting involved. All of the money raised goes to Mindcare.

Police Chief Thankful for Volunteer Group

You may never have heard of The Victim Service Unit of the Saint John Police Force.
They are a group of 10 volunteers who provide support to victims of crime and tragic circumstances. Police Chief Bill Reid says it's a boon to the City force and the citizens to have this service.
The Unit's volunteers provided over 5200 hours of coverage last year. Volunteers are on call from 7pm til 7am during the week and on weekends from 7pm on Friday until 7am Monday morning.

Fire Destroys Cottage

An early morning fire yesterday is resulting in a cottage being destroyed.
District Chief William Johnstone says crews responded to the blaze on Columbus Lane, just off the Acamac Backland Road and found the cottage was fully engulfed in flames.
Crews were on the scene for about 3 and a half hours and there were no injuries.

Earthquake near Sussex

Some minor tremors could be felt near Dairy town last night.

Natural Resources Canada are reporting an earthquake about 39 kilometres from Sussex.
The quake rated a 3.2 on the richter scale, and Seismologist Silvia Hayek tells CHSJ News, it isn't large enough to cause any damage or to raise any concerns.
Hayek says the area doesn't get earthquakes very often, and the largest one to date in New Brunswick was in Miramichi in 1982
The tremors from this one could be felt in Cumberland Bay, and Hunters Home.

More Trauma Issues

[Opposition Health Critic Margaret Ann Blaney--File Photo]

There is more political fallover resulting from an accident in Bathurst on Tuesday.

A woman waited more than 12 hours for emergency care at the Regional Hospital.
Opposition Health Critic Margaret Ann Blaney tells CHSJ News the Provincial Trauma Director is from Quebec and splits his time between provinces.
The MLA for Rothesay adds they must also come up with a Plan B for when he is unavailable which was the case on Tuesday night.

Fight For Rainbow Park Continues

[Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty---File Photo]

Saint John Harbour Liberal MLA and Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty vows to keep the fight going to upgrade Rainbow Park in the South End. The new look has come into question after Iring Oil announced it wouldn't go ahead with plans for it's headquarters on Long Wharf. The city had anticipated $1.2 million from the sale of the former Lantic Sugar site which would have gone to the park. Doherty tells CHSJ News, all parties involved with the proposal have to get back to the table:
City Hall so far is in for half a million dollars and the Federal cash comes with a stipulation.....construction must be finished by September.30th.

New Telus Wireless Feature

First it was Bell-Aliant and now Telus has announced a new feature for it's wireless phones. Megan Fielding is the Director of Communications and tells CHSJ News, they have up-graded the wireless 9-1-1 service:
The CRTC has been pressuring wireless companies to make this technology available for the past several years. Fielding adds total cost of the new set-up from coast to coast is $17 million dollars.

RCMP Make Arrest in Relation to Shooting

A 41 year old man is in custody in relation to the shooting in Lower Norton yesterday morning.
The RCMP arrested a suspect without incident in his residence in Erbs Cove.
Yesterday morning a 42 year old man was taken to the Regional Hospital with a gunshot wound and his injuries are believed to be serious.
The Mounties are looking for further information, and are asking anyone with information is to contact RCMP at 832-5566 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Uptown Fight Results in 4 Arrests

A quiet night for city police until about 2:30 in the morning.

Police were called to Subway on King Street after a fight broke out between two men.
Once officers arrived a melee ensued, resulting in two men being arrested for assaulting a police officer, resisting arrest and obstruction.
A woman was arrested at the scene and after a search was found with marijuana and is now facing possession charges.
Two other men were taken into custody for public intoxication.
There were no injuries, and all four people will be released after sobering up.

Minister Resigns

[Stuart Jamieson---File Photo]

Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson is stepping down from his position after a request from the Premier.

Jamieson writes in a letter than he has had a difficult time over the negotiations between Hydro Quebec and NB Power, and believes it should be put to a referendum to allow the people of New Brunswick the opportunity to decide.
Premier Shawn Graham says since Jamieson broke cabinet solidarity, he had no choice but to ask him to step down.
Wellness, Culture and Sport Minister Hédard Albert will be acting Tourism Minister, and Jamieson will continue to represent the people of Saint John Fundy until the next election.

Shooting Victim in serious condition at the Regional Hospital

A 42-year-old year old man shot this morning in Lower Norton is in serious condition at the Regional Hospital.

The shooting happened at a home on the Ketchum Road.
Police do not believe it was a random act and are following up on a variety of leads.
Anyone with information is asked to contact RCMP in Hampton at 832-5566 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Major Crime Unit Looking for Your Help

The Major Crime Unit is looking for your help in trying to solve a crime. It is in relation to a fire that happened at 303 Crown Street just before three o'clock this (yesterday) morning.


The side of the building was set on fire but damage is not extensive. Officers are looking for one person and if you have any information you can get in touch with them at 648-3333 or call Crime-Stoppers.

Westfield Ferry will be running intermittently over the weekend

Crews continue to chip away at the ice wreaking havoc with the run of Westfield Ferry this week.

Department of Transportation spokesperson Andrew Holland tells CHSJ News that three excavaters and 1 truck have been working on clearing ice at the site.
He says DOT crews will be working 24/7 this weekend to remove ice.
Until the ice is cleared, the Westfield Ferry will be running on an interrmittent schedule.

Health Critic Lashes Out Over Trauma Report Delay

Opposition Health Care Critic Margaret Ann Blaney of Rothesay is jumping all over the Provincial Government about trauma care. 

She tells CHSJ News recommendations to make it better should have been put in place months ago instead of having the report released this coming Monday -- she says it's been sitting on Health Minister Mary Schryer's desk for months.
Blaney says doctors tell her they're frustrated at the inaction and now there's an uproar over a Bathurst woman waiting 12 hours to receive emergency care at the Regional Hospital.

Gunfire On The Peninsula

The RCMP in Hampton are investigating a shooting incident earlier this moring -- A 42 year old man from Kingston was taken to the hospital with a gunshot wound.
More details are expected later on about what happened and the man's condition.

Market Square Gets a Make-Over

If you have walked through Market Square recently, you've probuably noticed a few changes. Holly's So-Ho Cafe is gone as is the House of Tara. Spokes-person for the Hardman Group Heather Peterson tells CHSJ News, the spaces won't be empty for long as a clothing store called Envy is moving into both spaces.
Peterson adds Manchester Shoes has moved into the mall as well and has been told House of Tara is not closing but moving into a new uptown location. As for the new renovation on the back end of the building, the finishing touches are being worked out and a ribbon cutting is expected in April.

Bridge Authority Responds to Ministers Claim

Only one and not three options have been presented to the Harbour Bridge Authority. That from it's General Manager Ken Anthony which contradicts what the Energy Minister told our news-room earlier this week saying three proposals are on the table and they are waiting for a response. Anthony tells CHSJ News, the bottom line is time is ticking away.


Anthony adds if a deal isn't worked out, they are still looking down the barrel of possible weight and speed restrictions.

Saint John Lawyer is Being Honored

A lawyer from the office of Barry Spalding will have the spotlight thrown on him tonight by the Provincial Branch of the Canadian Bar Association. David O'Brien is being recognized with the Distinguished Service Award which honors his contributions to law reform around the Province. With over 25 years of practice, O'Brien has participated in the drafting of legislation pertaining to health law and has written numerous articles for a variety of publications.
The award and several others will be presented tonight during a banquet at the Delta Beauséjour in Moncton.

Business on King Street is Closed

     (Pins and Needles Shop on King Street Closed)
              (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

After less than a year, a business on King Street has locked it's doors. The Pins and Needles Tattoo shop has shut down and the For Lease sign is hanging in the window. Formerly located at the corner of Princess and Prince William Streets, the business moved in last spring to expand so it could feature hair and tanning salons, body piercing and several other services.
No reason has been given for the decision to close down by owner Dave Rogers. The building was once home to Tapps Brewpub.

Energy Minister Jack Keir Answers Questions On Harbour Bridge Funding

Arson Suspected In Early Morning Fire

The Major Crime Unit is investigating a possible case of arson. City Police tell CHSJ News early this morning the side of a building at 303 Crown Street was set on fire but damage is not believed to be serious.

Harbour Bridge Funding Continues to Stir Controversy

(Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir)

(File Photo)

Needing over $30 million dollars for repair work, the Harbour Bridge Authority can't secure a loan. Energy Minister Jack Keir used to be the General Manager of the stucture and tells CHSJ News, the problems for the bridge started when Saint John MP Rodney Weston said he wanted to remove the tolls. Keir adds the Province has presented the bridge authority with three proposals and has yet to hear back from them.
Not ready to back down on his political platform, Weston can't believe his comments to work toward removing tolls on the Harbour Bridge are hindering its chances of locking up a loan. Weston says the Federal and Provincial Governments have invested millions of dollars on other portions of Route One and can't understand why the bridge is any different.

Saint John Board of Trade is on Board With Revised Deal

(President of the SJ Board of Trade Imelda Gilman)
                  (File Photo)

After pointing out several concerns in the original memorandum of understanding, the Saint John Board of Trade has given it's blessing to the second proposal between NB Power and Hydro Quebec. President Imelda Gilman tells CHSJ News, members had a private meeting with Minister Keir and the Advisory Panel recently.
Gilman adds looking at who the Board of Trade is and what they stand for, the agreement is in the best insteret of it's members.

Federal Cash for Rockwood Park

         (Saint John MP Rodney Weston at Lily Lake)
                     (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

With final preperations for the Pavillion Cup Hockey Torunament underway in the back-ground, Saint John MP Rodney Weston arrived at Lily lake today bearing gifts. Over $300,000 dollars has been earmarked for the greenspace through the Atlantic anada Opportunities Agency. Weston says this is a terrific project.


The money will be used to construct multi-purpose trails and improvements to exsisting areas including walkways, stone entry gates and grass turf. The city has also written a cheque towards the project at just over $3000 dollars.

Trevor Holder Not Happy

(Trevor Holder Speaking at a recent News Conference)
                (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The MLA for Saint John Portland not pulling any punches in response to an accusation from Energy Minister Keir. He claims the Conservative Party is responsible for triggering an on-line boycott against candy maker Ganong Brothers. Trevor Holder tells CHSJ News, he is stunned by the comment.


Holder is challenging Minister Keir to prove his accusation but believes he can't or won't. David Ganong, president and C-E-O of the company, chaired the advisory panel that reviewed the province's energy deal with Hydro-Quebec.

Building In Rothesay Damaged by Fire

(Crews Continue Clean-Up From Early Morning Fire)
                  (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The top left hand side of the building at 2 Arena Lane in Rothesay, New Brunswick has been heavily damaged. This after fire ripped through the building just after five this morning. Kennebecasis Valley Fire Chief Larry Greer tells CHSJ News, no word yet on how the blaze got started.


Fire Chief Greer tells us both the new pumper and quint trucks were put into action for this blaze and played a vital role in being able to save the building. Several families are being offered assistance by the Red Cross.

Traffic Delay Along Highway One This Afternoon

Drivers should know there will be blasting work done in East Saint John today. It will take place at 2 this afternoon and cause delays on Route 1 eastbound and westbound near the Crown Street off ramp. The traffic delay today will last about 15 minutes.
The work is part of Phase 2 of the Department of Transportation's One Mile House Interchange project.
The project includes a 600 metre viaduct and associated ramps and roadways to connect Route 1 to Bayside Drive and crosses the CN Railroad yard, Marsh Creek and Rothesay Avenue.
All work should be completed by the fall of 2012.

A Big Change Could Be Coming For Many Drivers

A new bill introduced in the Legislature could mean a big change to the driving habits of many. The Opposition critic for Public Safety Carl Urquhart wants drivers to slow down and proceed with caution while passing emergency vehicles when their flashing lights are on. If passed, the bill will change sections of the Motor Vehicle Act.
The bill also says if a person endangers the lives of emergency personnel by driving too close or too fast, they can receive a fine of between $400 and $2,000 for a first offense. If caught more than once, you could be fined between $1,000 and $4,000 or put in jail for up to six months.

Jeans For Haiti

Donating your gently-used jeans can help people in Haiti and at home. The Aeropostale store in McAllister Place is collecting denim until February 14th. The company is hoping to collect 100 thousand pairs and will match that amount in brand-new jeans.
Christine Vienneault of Aeropostale tells CHSJ News the balance of jeans will go to Romero House.
The Saint John Sea Dogs have autographed a pair of jeans and everyone who donates to the fundaiser will get a ballot. Aeropostale will also be collecting gently-used jeans at the Seadogs game on February 14th.

Gas Prices Decline

Another decrease in the price of gas after the weekly setting.......The maximum price for self serve regular is just over a dollar a litre and is being sold in Saint John for 97.9. The max that can be charged for diesel is 105.3 and it's going for 102.7 in the city. In Grand Bay-Westfield, Self Serve is selling for 96.9 and diesel for 101.7. Furnace oil is also a bit cheaper at 88.1 but propane rose in price to $1.16 a litre.

Local Real Estate Board President not alarmed over scrapped Long Wharf plans

The President of the Saint John Real Estate Board is not sounding the alarm over the Fort Reliance's decision to scrap its plans for Long Wharf.

Peter Pappas tells CHSJ News that last year's news from Irving Oil was more impactful.
He says it's a disappointment but, he says the cancellation of plans for a second refinery
was worse news for the local real estate market.
Pappas adds he hopes this decision doesn't negatively impact any future development on the waterfront.

Plenty of People Continuing Their Educations

A new study shows plenty of people are thirsting for knowledge. Released by the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission, it shows close to eighty percent of Maritime students remain enrolled at the same university a year after admission and almost 60 per cent graduate within six years.
The study also finds three per cent of students who began studies in 2001 were still enrolled six years later and 39 per cent had left the university without completing a degree.

Holder is Acclaimed in Saint John Portland

(Saint John Portland MLA Trevor Holder)
               (File Photo)

Trevor Holder will again fly the banner for the Conservative Party in the riding of Saint John Portland. He will be officially nominated when delegates gather tonight in the North End as no other candidates have come forward. Holder tells CHSJ News, he is pleased the party has lots of faith in his abilities.
A Provincial Election is scheduled for September.27th and tonight's nomination gets started at six o'clock at the Fort Howe Hotel.

Provincial Cash for Schools in District Six

(Superintendent Zoe Watson)
         (File Photo)

Schools in District Six received a gift from Premier Graham in Hampton today. Shawn Graham brought a cheque worth over $1.2 million to be spent to replace aging infrastructure at several schools including Apohaqui, Hammond River, Norton, Quispamsis, Rothesay and Sussex. Sprinkler systems and bus loading areas are just a few of the projects at the buildings and Hampton Elementary is getting a new roof and repairs to it's ventilation system.


No word on when work will get started or finish.

23 Irving Oil Gas Stations are Closed

South of the border today, more bad news for Irving Oil. A day after announcing the Long Wharf Headquarters deal was being scrapped. A dealer running 23 Irving Gas Stations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire has decided to temporarily close their locations. Irving spokesperson Liza Dube tells CHSJ News, financial difficulties is the reason given for the decision.
Dube adds the stations are owned by C.K. Smith and there is always a possibility they might re-open.

Home Raided in the North End

Weapons offences are the charges a 53-year old man will answer to in court at a later date. This after City Police raided a home on Victoria Street in the North End yesterday afternoon.


Once inside, officers found several guns.

Bay of Fundy Gets a Boost

A signifigant boost for the campaign to have the Bay of Fundy declared one of the global New7Wonders of Nature. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency through Tourism Atlantic, is contributing $45,000 to the campaign. In 2007, the Bay of Fundy was one of 440 entries from over 220 countries to be considered in the contest.


The Bay of Fundy is one of 28 finalists and the countries only entry remaining in the campaign. Voting will continue until next year when a winner is announced in the fall of next year.

Surplus Office Space Played Into Long Wharf Decision

A surplus of commercial office space in the Saint John area is being cited as one of the reason Fort Reliance has nixed its proposed new headquarters office complex at Long Wharf.
In a letter hand delivered to uptown merchants -- the company says the development could have negatively impacted the local commercial real estate market.
The company also re-affirms its commitment to return Long Wharf to its original state after driving steel foundation support beams at the site last summer.

Former Mayor Speaks Out On Long Wharf

Former Mayor Norm McFarlane says the decision by Fort Reliance not to go ahead with construction of its corporate headquarters at Long Wharf cannot be lightly dismissed. McFarlane tells CHSJ News this also sends out the wrong message about Saint John in the wake of the second oil refinery being shelved and there being no second reactor built at Point Lepreau. He predicts there will be ripple effects and they won't be good. McFarlane says he wonders where the city would be without the L-N-G development, which he concedes cost him re-election.

Saint John Longshoremen On Long Wharf Decision

(Long Wharf Development)

(File Photo)

Longshoremen in Saint John who opposed the construction of Irving Oil's Corporate headquarters at Long Wharf say they feel no elation about the deal falling apart. The Business Agent for I-L-A local 273 Pat Riley still believes the agreement violated the Canada Marine Act and was not in the best interests of the taxpayer or the port but would like the company to build its corporate headquarters elsewhere on the waterfront or uptown. Riley adds he bears the Irvings no ill will.

Board of Directors At Port Authority Called On To Resign

(Saint John Lancaster M-L-A Abel Leblanc)

(File Photo)

Saint John Lancaster M-L-A Abel Leblanc is calling on the Board of Directors at the Saint John Port Authority along with its chair Stephen Campbell to resign over how the Long Wharf deal with Fort Reliance was carried out. Leblanc, a retired longshoreman, was an outspoken opponent of the plan to build Irving Oil's new Corporate headquarters at Long Wharf. He says Long Wharf has not been promoted by the port.

St. Stephen Area Woman Sentenced In Death of Her Baby

A 30 month prison term handed a St. Stephen area woman in the slaying of her newly born son. Sarah Russell will get 4 months of that sentence for criminal negligence causing death reduced for the time already served behind bars. A judge determined Russell could have sought help on or before the birth last January.
Russell's boyfriend, Rodney Miller, pleaded guilty in September to first-degree murder for fatally stabbing the baby moments after he was born. Psychological reports determined Russell is naive and has a lower than normal intelligence level.

New Chair Of Police Commission Sworn In

(Police Commission Chair ChrisWaldschutz being sworn in by Judge William McCarroll)

(photo by Tamara Steele)

For the first time, A chair of the Saint John Police Commission was sworn in. In a ceremony at City Hall, Judge Bill McCarroll made Chris Waldschutz the new chair. Police Chief Bill Reid says Waldschutz, a former Common Councillor, brings vast experience and community involvement to the job.
Chief Reid says the ceremony shows the importance of the commission to the community.

Police Commission Hears About Crime Scene Investigations

The Saint John Police Commission has learned that processing evidence from crime scenes is not as pretty as it looks on television.
Sergeant Mark Smith of the Forensic Identification Unit gave a presentation involving a mock armed robbery from gathering evidence at the crime scene to presenting it in court.
The current offices are cramped and some of the technolgy is outdated but those problems will be solved when the Police move into their new headquarters at Peel Plaza in 2012.

Daycare In Quispamsis Gets Support At Town Council

(Town of Quispamsis Crest)

(File Photo)

The plan to rezone a property on Sugarmaple Lane in Quispamsis to house a daycare is almost nearing an end. The issue stems from one resident opposing the rezoning due to increased traffic.
Nearly 70 people came to support Janie Stewart, with children and customers speaking on her behalf to council. The application has been ongoing since July and since then, Stewart has paved the road and had several engineering studies conducted over drainage concerns. Final reading of the application is set to go February 16th.

Port Authority Reacts to Long Wharf News

(Port Authority Captain Al Soppitt Speaking to the Media)
                  (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The Saint John Port Authority is expressing it's disappointment with news about the future of Long Wharf. Captain Al Soppitt says final site preperations for Long Wharf and the former lantic Sugar Refinery were underway between Fort Reliance and the City Officials.


Captain Soppitt adds Long Wharf is a vital tool for this and cruise ship seasons to come for the larger vessels coming in to service. As for clean-up of the pre-construction work on Long Wharf, Soppitt is confident Fort Reliance will live up to it's commitment of returning the site to it's original state.

Saint John Waterfront Development calls Long Wharf decision unfortunate

While they think today's announcement from Fort Reliance is unfortunate, it's business as usual for the Saint John Waterfront Development.
Chairman Charles Swanton says they will continue to facilitate, encourage and lead waterfront development in many areas.
Two weeks ago, they sponsored an open house on 12 projects including Reversing Rapids, Patridge Island and Long Wharf Slip.
Vice Chairman Bill MacMackin says several key waterfront projects being worked on in various stages of development.

Mayor Ivan Court calls Long Wharf decision disappointing

(file photo)

Mayor Ivan Court calls today's announcement from Fort Reliance that plans will not proceed on Long Wharf with a new headquarters kind of a shock and disappointing.
Court tells CHSJ news says he expects there will be future partnerships with Fort Reliance.
Court says it would have been more devastating news if they said they were pulling up stakes but, they are not doing that.
Court adds they are part of the economic engine that keeps this city going.

Long Wharf Deal is Dead

Just seven months after announcing it was shelving plans for a second refinery, the parent company of Irving Oil has dropped another bomb-shell. In a news release, Fort Reliance confirms days of speculation that it will not move ahead with it's plan to build a new headquarters on Long Wharf. Spokes-person Daniel Goodwin tells CHSJ News, this is disappointing not just for the community but the company as well.

As for any hope this project may be ""reborn"" some time down the road, Goodwin adds this project will not proceed but appreciates the communities support through the entire process.

Day in Court for 55-Year Old Man

Facing three charges, Adrienne Le-Page has pleaded guilty to two, armed robbery and abduction during a brief court appearance today. The 55-year old said not guilty to the third charge of attempted murder. It was back on November.30th that Le-Page walked into the Barnwood Pub in Quispamsis looking for cash and in the process of the robbery, also took the woman working at the bar with him when he left.
She was dropped off in Lepreau a few hours later. The next court appearance for Le-Page is April.8th.

The Fight Against Proposed Power Merger Rages On

(NB People First at a Recent Rally at the Legislature)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Protesters plan to be on hand in St. Stephen late this afternoon when David Ganong, who chaired the six member panel who approved of the NB Power sale to Hydro Quebec, makes a public presentation. Bethany Thorne Dykstra of Put NB People First tells CHSJ News this deal is being made for the benefit of the large companies in the province.


Dykstra scoffs at the notion the panel was truly independent because the members will either profit from the agreement, were handpicked by the government or get their pay cheques from the province.

Who Wants to Pay for Repairs to the Harbour Bridge

                   (Mayor Ivan Court)
                    (File Photo) 

The issue of who is going to fund the repairs to the Harbour Bridge continues with Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson writing a letter to the mayor. Mayor Ivan Court says in the letter it states the province is willing to open discussions over a loan to help with repairs to the bridge, but only if there is a guarantee from the federal government the tolls will not be removed.


Court says from the looks of it, the province is willing to get involved but only if the debt continues to be paid down by the tolls.

Grand Manan Names It's New Ferry

The name of the new, 82-car ferry to link Grand Manan with the mainland is the Adventure. The $65 million dollar contract to build the vessel was announced last spring and is being built by a shipyard in Florida. Construction continues and officials tell us the part of the ship that will hold the engines and generators is currently being worked on.


The new ferry will operate year-round and the MS Grand Manan V will become the summer ferry. The new ferry should be in the water by next spring.

The Fight Against Obesity

Childhood obesity in Saint John is no joke. That's one reason an effort is being made to set up a co-ed Atom football team in the south end for players 10 and 11 years of age. Barry Ogden chairs the city's recreation committee. He tells CHSJ News every dollar spent on recreation saves four dollars in health care costs.
Ogden says all of the equipment will be supplied and if you're interested, give him a call at 658-59-11.

Woman Thrown Out of a Window

It was like a scene out of a movie when a woman was thrown out of a window from a home on Church Avenue in Sussex yesterday. Sussex RCMP were called to the home just before seven last night to find the 48-year old woman and a 52 year old man had been assualted. Officers tells us a 53-year old man walked into the home, uninvited and assualted both who were taken to hospital and treated for cuts.

The man was found a short time later drunk and taken into custody. He does know both the man and woman that were assualted. He will appear before a judge today answering to a charge of assualt.

Peel Plaza Development Moves Ahead

(Peel Plaza Development)

(File Photo)

The province is officially on board with Peel Plaza. Common Council has approved a memorandum of understanding with the province that details cost sharing associated with Peel Plaza.
The provincial contribution is nearly 10 million dollars, and Mayor Ivan Court says this is the time to proceed with interest rates low. Councillor Chris Titus says the beauty of the MOU is that the city can opt out of it but the province can't. The project is expected to be completed by May 2012 with shovels going into the ground this spring.

Deputy Mayor Votes Against Peel Plaza Development

There was one nay when voting on whether to sign the M-O-U with the province relating to Peel Plaza.
Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase says since the province is committing to the parking facility and the justice complex, maybe the city should continue to seek out a better venue for the new police station.
Chase says he can't support signing the document because it's not even known how much Peel Plaza is going to cost the city.

New Housing Construction In The North End

You may soon notice some construction activity in empty lots along Churchill Boulevard in the North End. The provincial government is getting ready to replace public housing which was torn down almost two years ago. Social Development Minister Kelly Lamrock tells CHSJ News there is money in is department's capital budget for the project and construction should begin some time this year.

Price of Beer Could Be Rising Soon

Moosehead Breweries will apply for a 25 cent increase in the price for a case of beer this spring. That word comes a day after Prince Edward Island Jacked up the price of a case of beer by 50 cents. Joel Levesque is Vice-President of Communications and tells CHSJ News, they normally apply for any increases in the spring.
The last increase for the price of beer in this province happened last fall. Right now, depending on the brand and what kind of promotion is going on, the price for 12 beer varies between $18 and $21 dollars.

Energy Minister Jack Keir On N-B Power C-E-O David Hay's Resignation

Canada Post on Black History Month

William Hall is being thrust into the spotlight by Canada Post as we celebrate Black History month. He is being honored with a commemorative stamp as the first Canadian sailor and black man to receive the Victoria Cross, the military honour for bravery during combat in 1859 from the British Royal Navy.


Hall became the first Canadian sailor, the first Nova Scotian, and the first black person to receive the Victoria Cross from the British Royal Navy. On the stamp, Hall is shown against a seascape with the HMS Shannon in the background wearing his Victoria Cross, the Indian Mutiny Medal, the Turkish Crimea Medal, and the Crimea Medal.

Memorandum of Understanding on Wait Times

(Health Minister Schryer(Center) Cuts the Ribbon on New Accelerator)
                       (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Provincial Health Departments in Atlantic Canada have a memorandum of understanding on the table when it comes to the issue of wait times for radiation treatment. Health Minister Mary Schryer tells CHSJ News, when patients are ready to be treated, the wait time will not exceed two months.


Schryer says the wait time around the Province is currently at four weeks with 90% of patients receiving treatment. The deal is expected to be signed and put into effect by the end of next month.

Temporary Change of Command at CFB Gagetown

   (GageTown Crest)

Even though his rank stays the same, there is a new man being saluted as the person in charge at CFB Gagetown. Lieutenant-Colonel Tony Weber is Acting Base Commander while Colonel Michael Pearson is participating as a member of the Board of Inquiry investigating the June 2006 Afghanistan detainee incident.
No word on when the board of inquiry will wrap things up.

Social Groups Looking At Impact Of N-B Power Deal

Social agencies are beginning to ask questions about the impact of the proposed sale of N-B Power to Hydro Quebec.
Energy Minister Jack Keir is suggesting it will benefit those living in poverty with lower power rates and new job creation opportunities.
But -- Randy Hatfield of the Human Development Council tells CHSJ News there are other issues to be addressed like the disconnect policy or the block rate system of declining cost versus usage.
Hatfield says various local agencies will have to start going over the proposed agreement more closely to determine the impact it will have on low income people.

Linear Accelarators at the Regional Now On-Line

(Horizon Health Network CEO Don Peters at the Podium)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

A huge part of the renovation work at the Regional Hospital is now finished. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held today which officially opens a specialized bunker to house two new linear accelerators. Don Peters is CEO of the Horizon Health Network and says this is a great day not only for Saint John but anyone needing cancer treatment around the Province.


The Regional will now house three linear accelerators with one of the older models staying in service. Total cost of the project is $14.4 million with the second phase of the proposal expected to be finished by April.

Watermain Break Along Prince William Street

A watermain break along Prince William Street is described as major and will take most of the day to fix. Those people between Duke and Princess Streets will be without water until the repairs are done. CHSJ News has been told the pipe that broke was cast iron. Drivers are being warned the water is pooling and freezing quickly.

Independent Panel Report on NB Power Deal with Hydro Quebec

A six member independent panel who evaluated the proposed NB power deal with Hydro-Quebec has concluded the deal is good for this province.
The panel, chaired by David Ganong and which included former Provincial NDP Leader Elizabeth Weir, was commissioned to study the proposed $3.2 billion sale of 10 NB Power plants, including the Point Lepreau nuclear generating station.
Ganong says the deal would result in lower power rates in the near and long-term and would reduce the financial risks associated with the aging facilities.
The panel is recommending the Energy and Utilities Board be given more authority to eliminate any government interference in its decisions. Opposition leader David Alward has been quick to dismiss the report as a public relations exercise.

Video Excerpt Of Energy Minister Jack Keir's Speech To Board Of Trade

Energy Minister Speaks to Board of Trade

     (Energy Minister Keir Speaks to Board of Trade)
                    (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The praises of the NB Power-Hydro-Quebec second memorandum of understanding were being sung to a Board of Trade Breakfast today. The guest speaker was Energy Minister Jack Keir who says both companies and home-owners will prosper when this deal is finalized.


Many people opposed to the deal say it is former Premier Frank McKenna who orchestrated this proposal behind the scenes but Minister Keir says that is absolute nonsense.

Milk Costs More Beginning Today

If you're heading to the store for some milk this morning, make sure to take a few extra pennies. Starting today milk will be increasing by one cent a litre. The Farm Products Commission is calling the increase modest saying operating costs were kept down because of lower fuel prices. School milk prices will remain the same.

Black History Month

Today kicks off the beginning of Black History Month, and Prude is getting the word out on what's going on around the city. Program Director Jocelyn Stevens tells CHSJ news, one of the main goals for this year is raising awareness of race issues among young people. Stevens says the efforts by Prude go on after Black History Month, specficially teaching young people about the cultures of immigrants. Stevens says culture shock is a major concern for newly immigrated residents, and it's her groups job to try and ease the transition. Prude will also be hosting an African Culture exhibit at UNBSJ on February 25th.

Provincial Energy Minister Before the Board of Trade

(Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir)

(File Photo)

Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir is expected to make the case this morning for the revised, downscale version of the NB Power deal with Hydro Quebec before the Saint John Board of Trade. Keir says one big concern he has heard is who will control energy policy in the future. Keir says the province retains control of both the transmission and distribution systems as well as regulating rates. As such, he argues consumers should not fear huge rate increases after the five year rate freeze comes to an end. Keir vows you will see more projects in the Saint John energy hub with lower power rates and reduced taxes.
The Board of Trade expressed some concerns about the original proposal but has not staked out a position yet on the revise 3.2 billion dollar agreement.

Harbour Bridge Repairs

(Common Councillor Chris Titus)

(File Photo)

A Common Councillor is looking to gain the support of the provincial government to fund repairs on the Harbour Bridge. Chris Titus is submitting a motion to ask the province to agree to cost share the cost of repairs to the bridge with the federal government.If the province gets on board, Titus is suggesting the project get started this year. Also, in the motion is a request to Provincial Conservative leader David Alward to include repairs on the Harbour Bridge in his party platform in the September election. Common Council meets tonight in the council chambers at 6:30.

Local Craft Fair at Lily Lake Pavillion

A Saint John teenager is looking to raise some cash to help build a school in Sri Lanka.

17 year old Zoe Caddell and Anna Duncan have organized a local arts and craft fair at the Lily Lake Pavillion on behalf of Free the Children.
Caddell tells CHSJ news, the goal is to raise money to build a school, but to also get people thinking about buying local.
Things get underway today at noon at the Lily Lake Pavillion.

Cruise Symposium Coming to the Port City

For the first time since 1998, Saint John will host the Canada New England Cruise Symposium.
Over 225 participants will be in the city to hear industry experts talk about trends in the industry.
Betty MacMillan of Saint John Port Authority tells CHSJ news they expect the new cruise ship season to bring in about 30 million dollars with more passengers than last year.
The first call of the new cruise ship season is in late May with the symposium coming up in June at the Trade and Convention Centre.

Kids Guide at New Brunswick Museum

The New Brunswick Museum at Market Square got some help from grade 4 and 5 students at Prince Charles School in puting together a kids guide to the Museum. Wendy Martindale is head of community services at the museum. She tells CHSJ News the perspective of children differs from that of adults.
Martindale says it's hoped the kids guide will result in more young people becoming interested in what's going on at the museum.

Home Renovation Tax Credit Ends Tonight

[M-P Rodney Weston---File Photo]

A popular program aiming to put money back into the economy by giving citizens money for home renovations is coming to an end tonight.
Saint John M-P Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News, he's not sure if there are any discussions to extend the Home Renovations Tax Credit, but he's heard a lot of positive feedback about it.
Weston says the program did exactly what it set out to do.
Weston says since he's not privy to discussions between Finance Minister Jim Flaherty and Prime Minister Harper, he's not sure what the status of extending the program is.