District 6 Education Council Surplus

[District 6 Superintendent Zoe Watson-----File Photo]

The District 6 education council is looking at a surplus by years end in regards to it's budget. Superintendent Zoe Watson tells CHSJ News, as of January 29th, there is over 10 thousand dollars in the fund but is expected to drop by the end of the year adding the leftover money will go towards purchasing anti-bullying posters
.Watson says at recent consultation meeting with parents, anti-bullying messages were a top priority adding any money left after the purchase of the posters will go towards buying more books.

Rothesay Gets Some New Gear

The town of Rothesay is spending some cash for new public works equipment. Over $165 thousand dollars is going toward a MT6 Trackless multi purpose sidewalk tractor. Director of Municipal Operation Scott Hatcher says this is equipment that is used by every municipality.

The town is also spending $23 thousand dollars on a Bobcat utility vehicle and 13 thousand dollars on a pavement marking line painter.

Watermain Break in East Saint John

Quick work by City Works Crews last night saved a lot of businesses in East Saint John grief on the busiest night of the week. A watermain broke at the corner of McAllister and Westmorland Drives just after six o'clock but crews quickly isolated the problem and no businesses were affected by the break.


The city will be back on the scene Monday to fix the problem and a heads up for vehicles, the inside lane along McAllister Drive right near the movie theaters has a huge crack in it so keep an eye out for that.

Person Struck Near Rothesay Avenue

The overpass on Rothesay Avenue is closed after a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle.
City police are rerouting traffic, as the reconstructionist team investigates what happened.
Not many details are available, as the investigation begins, but the Staff Sergeant tells CHSJ News, the pedestrian suffered serious injuries.

Bay of Fundy at the Olympics

The world famous Bay of Fundy will be represented at the Olympics starting today.
Bay of Fundy tourism will have a display promoting voting in the New 7 Wonders of Nature campaign.
Terri McCulloch of Bay of Fundy Tourism tells CHSJ News all four provinces are represented at Atlantic Canada House on Granville Island in Vancouver.
The display starts today and runs until February 28th.
To vote for the Bay of Fundy go to www.votemyfundy.com

A Celebration for Rothesay

[Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop----File Photo]

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Town of Rothesay with the celebrations starting this summer.

Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, the goal is to get the community involved as much as possible.
Bishop says the town has applied to Heritage Canada for a grant of $50 thousand dollars and is confident it will be approved. The town has established a committee to coordinate a number of events starting in August.

Funds Roll in for Q-Plex

[Breaking Ground For the Q-Plex---File Photo]

With another sponsor brought on board earlier this week for the Q-Plex, where do things stand with the Capital Fundraising Campaign. The new goal is $1.5 million and Quispamsis Mayor Murray Driscoll tells CHSJ News, the original goal was an even one million dollars:

Driscoll adds they anticipate the Q-Plex will come in on budget but the more sponsorship dollars they can raise, the less of a burden on the tax-payer.

LeBlanc Reacts to Jamiesons Resignation

[Saint John Lancaster M-L-A Abel LeBlanc---File Photo]

Many people are still searching for answers after Saint John Fundy MLA and former Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson resigned from cabinet late last week. Abel Leblanc is the MLA for Saint John Lancaster and tells CHSJ News, he and Jaimeson are good friends and he feels bad about the situation:

Premier Graham says Jaimeson broke the ranks of cabinet when he spoke out against the NB Power/Hydro Quebec proposal saying it should be out to a vote. We spoke to Leblanc days before he lost his temper in the Legislature on Thursday, flipping members of the Conservative party the bird and doubling up his fist with a challenge to meet him outside.

Skate to Care Gets Underway Today

Harbour Station provides the back-drop for the 23rd Investors Group Skate to Care today. 36 teams have been fund-raising for months and are now ready to hit the ice. The goal is to raise between $140 and $15,000 dollars for mindcare. Donna Gates is Executive Director and tells CHSJ News, this is her first year in running the event with Peggy Brittian stepping down:

Gates adds anyone interested in applying for funds can do so until the 26th at www.mindcare.ca. The opening ceremony gets started at noon.

St. Stephen Robbery

RCMP are investigating a robbery in the Bordertown around 12:30 this afternoon.
Police tell us a man entered a bank on Milltown Boulevard walked up to the teller and demanded money. The suspect received an undisclosed amount of cash.
He is described as white, 5 foot 7 inches tall, in his early twenties or thirties and he may
also have cuts on his face.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call St. Stephen RCMP at 755-1132 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Prisoner Re-captured

It was a short stint of freedom for a prisoner from the Westmorland Institution in Dorchester. At eight o'clock last night, Harry Hamilton Davies was taken back into custody after escaping from the prison and was quickly transferred to a medium security facility.


Hamilton-Davies is serving a sentence of two years seven months for conspiracy to commit an indictable offence involving the Importation of Drugs and Trafficking. A complete review of how the prisoner escaped is underway.

Leblanc is Silent While Blaney Speaks

(Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney)
                         (File Photo)

After having plenty to say yesterday, Saint John Lancaster MLA Abel Leblanc is keeping a low profile today. Several calls to the Liberal members cell-phone goes straight to voice-mail and the receptionist at his office says he will not be in today. Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney on the other hand spoke to the media before today's session of the legislature calling yesterday's incident uncomfortable and awful.

Blaney adds the speakers decision to suspend Leblanc is both prudent and a good one. The Conservatives are demanding Leblanc apologize before returning to the Legislature and speaker Roy Boudreau says such behaviour will not be tolerated. The three day suspension begins today with-out pay.

Senator Mike Duffy is Going to the Olympics

(Senator Mike Duffy at the Delta Earlier This Week)
               (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Helping to promote his home province, Conservative Senator Mike Duffy will make an appearance at the Winter Olympics. Each province has a day set aside to help promote itself and maybe get a few people to consider a visit in the future. Duffy tells CHSJ News, this is a wonderful initiative.
Duffy says New Brunswick is the only one that will not have a Provincial Day at the Olympics and can't figure out why. CHSJ News placed a call to the Premier's office earlier this week for an explanation but have yet to hear back.

Section of Route One is Ripped Up

Another section of roadway in Greater Saint John that has seen better days is Route One west-bound near the Irving Circle "K". Huge sections of asphalt have broken away where repair work was done last summer leaving behind huge craters for motorists to dodge. Andrew Holland is a spokes-person for the Department of Transportation and tells CHSJ News, as soon as they get into a stretch of cold, dry weather, they can apply some cold mix asphalt.


Holland adds no communities are immune from this problem and ask motorists for some patience as they look to fix the problem.

Leblanc's Finger Still Hot Topic

(Saint John Lancaster MLA Abel Leblanc Flips the Bird)
                           (File Photo)

People and politicians are still talking about yesterday's incident in the Legislature where Saint John Lancaster MLA Abel Leblanc flipped the bird to Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney and the entire opposition bench. Politicial Scientist at UNB Saint John Don Desserud tells CHSJ News, he doesn't expect Premier Graham will ask Leblanc for his resignation.


Desserud adds there is a lot of stress on the Liberal side of the Legislature and this incident certainly proves that.

Pot Hole Season is Early

                      (Pot-Hole on King Street)
                   (Photo by Jim Hennessy)


Plenty of drivers in Greater Saint John look like their in an Alpine Ski event ducking and dodging pot holes like markers on the hill. Pot-hole season has arrived early in the metro thanks to a lack of snow and the freeze and thaw cycle. Kevin Rice is the Deputy Commissioner of Municipal Operations and tells CHSJ News, they are doing what they can but a permanent fix this time of year is tough.


Rice adds part of the City Works Departments mandate is to inspect all of the street systems on a weekly basis and service responses by priority.

Not Much Snow in Greater Saint John

    (Shot of King Street During a Recent Snow Storm)
                           (File Photo)

For some, this winter has been a god send while for others, they are missing out on activities due to the lack of snow. The Saint John Airport is reporting only six cm's of snow on the ground. Environment Canada Meteorologist Claude Cote tells CHSJ News, the most snow on the ground is in the south-eastern and northern-western parts of the Province.


Cote adds we are far from setting any records how-ever. It was back in 1970, there was no snow on the ground in Greater Saint John mid-February but at the same time in 1993, we had 118cm's and that is still the record.

Don't Forget, Sunday is Valentines Day

       (Paul's Flower Shop on the Old Rothesay Road)
                  (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Whether your married, dating or living together, a quick reminder that Sunday is Valentines Day and buying a little something for the one you love is always a good way to go. Flowers are always popular and the owner of Pauls Flower Shop Mark Farwell tells CHSJ News, calling ahead for your order goes along way.
Farwell adds orders have been steady all week but expects tomorrow and Saturday will really get hectic.

Update on Q-Plex

(Groundbreaking Ceremony for Q-Plex with Quispamsis M-L-A Mary Schryer, Mayor Murray Driscoll and Fundy Royal M-P Rob Moore)

(File Photo)

Straight and steady is the term being used for construction of the Q-Plex. The north concourse was poured on Monday which means the north end of the facility is enclosed and heated. Manager Brad Steel tells CHSJ News, skaters will be on the ice of the facility this fall.
Steel admits they have run into some delays in pouring concrete when the wind-chill drops the temperature into the feels like -30 range but that is part of the fun when working outdoors during the winter.

South End Fire

Fire crews had their hands full last night with a fire in the south end. District Fire Chief Peter Sab says it broke out on the first floor of a building at 175 Pitt Street shortly after 9:00. Fire Damage was heavy to the first floor of the building. Two families have been left homeless. An investigation is underway into a cause but it's believed to be electrical in nature and not suspicious. Firefighters were on the scene for 4 hours.

Elementary School In Quispamsis Gets Into the Olympic Spirit

A Quispamsis Elementary school will be a little Vancouver today hosting their own Opening Ceremonies. Vice-Principal David Ripley tells CHSJ News former Olympian Monica Hitchcock, of the 1984 Canadian volleyball team, will lead the students and staff in the parade of athletes around Lakefield Elementary and the school's choir will also perform. The festivities will get underway at 10:30.
Ripley adds the school will be hosting Olympic competitions next Friday including its own take on events like curling, speed skating and luge.

Saint John Animal Rescue League To Benefit From Olympic Painting

(Artist Norm Jackson with his Olympic painting)

(File Photo)

A local artist is donating half of the proceeds from prints and postcards of his Olympic artwork to the Saint John Animal Rescue League.
Norm Jackson's painting which features an Inukshuk, Polar Bears and Northern Lights, will be presented to the host city for it's Olympic museum after the games.
The animal shelter will have a table at Winterfest on February 20th at the Lily Lake Pavillion where people can buy posters and postcards of Jackson's print.
The Rescue league will be selling the prints until the end of the Olympics.

Saint John Lancaster MLA Loses His Temper

(Saint John Lancaster MLA Able Leblanc in the Legislature)
                  (Photo Courtesy of Twitter)

To say things got a little heated in the Legislature this afternoon would be an understatement. During question period, Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney was flipped the bird by Saint John Lancaster MLA Abel Leblanc. The session was just finishing when the half peace sign was noticed by members of the opposition. MLA and Government House Leader Greg Byrne then stood up addressed the members assuring them the issue would be addressed as a caucus and respect is a must for all members.


Leblanc then stood up and told the Legislature he would not apologize to Blaney and confirmed he did flip here the bird. He then doubled up his fist and challenged any member of the opposition to meet him outside of the Legislature and to never laugh at him calling one member a punk.

Losing Long Wharf Could Set the City Back 10 Years

 

[Don Mills Speaking at a Board of Trade Luncheon----Photo by Dave Briggs]

Irving Oil pulling the plug on development of it's headquarters on Long Wharf is setting this city back a decade - - - - -that from President and CEO of Corporate Research Associates Don Mills.
Mills says everyone has to ask themselves if losing the project can be solely traced back to the recession, he says it could be related to waiting too long, and missing the window of opportunity.

Mills says the city is not going to be able to find another flagship development for the Waterfront, which is devastating for the municipality.
Mills says the city needs to focus on creating a a longer term outlook other than the Municipal Plan. He says he wants to see what the mixture of commercial and residential development for the city will be over the next 20 years.

Bernard Leblanc Steps Down

(Bernard Leblanc)

(file photo)

Premier Shawn Graham has accepted the resignation from cabinet of Bernard LeBlanc as minister of justice and consumer affairs.Social Development Minister and Attorney General Kelly Lamrock has been appointed acting minister of justice and consumer affairs.
When LeBlanc was serving as minister of local government, an e-mail that contained personal information was sent in his name from his office.
LeBlanc chose to resign because ministers are ultimately responsible for their offices.
Graham calls Leblanc a very honourable man and regrets having to accept his resignation.

Irving Oil Makes Huge Donation

Irving Oil employee's are feeling pretty good today and well they should. Through several fund-raisers, staff raised $27,000 dollars for the Haitian Relief Fund which will be matched dolar for dollar by the company and be added on to it's original $50,000 donation. That totals $104,000 dollars and spokes-person Lesley MacLeod tells CHSJ News, it is a fantastic effort.
The fundraising efforts started back on Jan.14th and included bake sales and casual days. The final day to make a donation to the Red Cross that will be matched by the Federal Government is tomorrow.

Pepsi on Board With The Q-Plex

             (Pepsi Bottling Spokes-Person Jason Brunt)
                      (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Another sponsor has been found for the Q-Plex. The Pepsi Bottling Company is locked in for the next ten years at $125,000 dollars for the naming rights of the Aquafina Walking Track. Spokes-person Jason Brunt says they have been eyeing this deal since plans for the facility were announced.


Along with it's name on the walking track, the Pepsi Bottling Company will install power saving vending machines, coolers and fountain equipment through the Q-Plex and become it's exclusive beverage provider.

Saint John Company Gets Help From Ottawa

(Saint John MP Rodney Weston)
          (File Photo)

Half a million dollars has been presented to a Saint John company by the Federal Government. Mariner Partners accepted the cheque from MP Rodney Weston through the National Research Council of Canada. Marketing Director Mike McNeill tells CHSJ News the money is earmarked to develop better technology to monitor the quality of I-P based TV on demand to consumers.
McNeill concedes the competition for this business is intense.

Illegal Smokes Are Found

The supply of illegal cigarettes in the city has taken a huge hit. RCMP pulled over a vehicle on Tuesday and found 150,000 contraband smokes and a 52-year old Saint John man behind the wheel.
Officers believe the cigarettes were on their way to supply the habits of those in Greater Saint John. No name has been released but the man is due in court May.5th to answer to charges.

Man in Sussex Charged by the Environment Department

The Department of Environment has laid a charge against a Sussex Man that he violated the Clean Environment Act.
The Department of Environment alleges that on Feb. 16 of last year, Timothy Bastian of 120 Court Street released a contaminant, or class of contaminant into the environment without authority or permission.

Provincial Police Commission Hires New Director

The New Brunswick Police Commission has hired Pierre Beaudoin as it's new executive director. With over 30 years as a police officer, Beaudoin has spent many years in an investigator role. Most recently, he worked as a senior investigator for the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages.
The Commission is an independent body that investigates and resolves complaints relating to the conduct of police officers. It also looks into any other aspect of police services.

Slight Decline In Gas Prices

A very slight decrease in gas prices this morning in the Saint John area following the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular is just over a dollar but is being sold in the city for 97.7 a litre. The max for diesel is 104.7 but it's on offer around town for 102.1. Heating oil is listed at 87.7 and propane is at 116.9. In Grand Bay-Westfield this morning, self serve is at 96.7 and diesel is 101.1.

Simonds High Principal To Run For Liberals

With Saint John Fundy MLA Stuart Jaimeson announcing he will not re-offer in the fall Provincial election, one man has stepped forward looking to take his place. Simonds High Principal Gary Keating tells CHSJ News, he will seek the nomination.
Keating has been the President of the Saint John Fundy Liberal Association for many years and feels he has the right amount of support. Keating adds he has a tremendous amount of respect for Jaimeson and that is why he waited until the M-L-A announced his intentions for the fall election.

French Language Program A Success

It appears the intensive French program implemented for grade 5 students across the province is yielding positive results.
Intensive French Learning Specialist for District 6 Johanne Austin says the program is making younger children interested in learning about the language and French culture.
Austin tells CHSJ News, grade 5 students are encouraging the younger students about the program.
Austin says what makes the program work is the amount of oral work being done. She says students enjoy talking about themselves, and what interests them.

Fire at Funeral Home

There was a fire at Brenan's on Paradise Row last night. It was called in around 9:30 because of the smell of smoke in a rear parlour under a newly installed crematorium. District Fire Chief Eric Garland says the ceiling was taken down and the fire extinguished. Brenan's is still open as the other areas of the building were unaffected by the fire.

Senator Mike Duffy in Saint John for Atlantic Caucas

(Senator Mike Duffy)

(photo by Jim Hennessy)

Admitting the Conservatives should have done a better job explaining why Parliament was being shut down, Senator Mike Duffy spent some time speaking with our news-room on the topic. Duffy tells CHSJ News, despite what many believe, the Olympics were not the focus behind the decision:
Duffy says Parliment was prorogued because Liberal Senators refused to pass a drug trafficking bill which said if you have over five marijuana plants you are a trafficker and upped the amount to 200.

Caucus Meeting Hailed a Success

(Conservative Caucus Adresses Media Following Session)
                     (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The Atlantic Conservative Caucus meeting held in Saint John is being hailed a success. Three presentations on energy, forestry and anti-poverty initiatives were made to the room full of MP's, Ministers and Senators. Saint John MP Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News, all issues discussed in the session are confidential but plenty of material was gathered for pre-budget consultations.


The foresty presentation said it appreciates the help recently from Ottawa to the industry but they still have issues including access to credit for small operators. Also included in the conversation was the Princess of Acadia service and the Atlantic Gateway.

Province to boost Awareness of Non-Profit Groups

The Graham Government wants you to know more about volunteering.
The Province will provide information, training and morefor community volunteers and non-profit organizations.
Brian Kenny, Minister for the Community Non-Profit Organizations Secretariat announced today their operating budget is $378-thousand dollars for 2010-2011.

Kenny adds their initiatives include finding training sessions to help non-profits develop capacity, establish a website, newsletter and database.  The government plans to makes courses available to help non-profits groups and their volunteers with leadership, communication and more.
Space is limited, to register, non-profit groups can call 1-888-295-4545.

Still No Cash for the Harbour Bridge

Time continues to tick away for the Harbour Bridge Authority and it's bid for cash to carry out repairs on the structure. Over $30 million dollars is needed and Authority General Manager Ken Anthony tells CHSJ News, at this point, they still need permission from Ottawa and City Hall to secure any funding.


Anthony is quick to point out the bridge is safe but notes that speed and weight restrictions might need to be put in place if repairs aren't carried out soon.

Last Chance to Make a Donation

(Haitian Child Receiving Treatment Following Earthquake)
                         (File Photo)

With Friday the deadline for matching federal funds on individuals donations for Haiti relief, the Red Cross is doing it's part. the Saint John, Fredericton and Moncton offices will remain open until 6:30pm if anyone is looking to help out at the last minute. Spokes-person Dan Bedell tells CHSJ News, with the exception of the Tsuanami, this is the organizations largest humanitarian relief effort.


To date, the Red Cross itself has received over $86 million dollars and two thirds of that is individual donations:

Atlantic Caucus Meeting in Saint John

         (Conservative Caucus Don Seadogs Jersey)
                  (Photo by Jim Hennessy)


For the first time, a meeting of the Atlantic Caucus is being held outside of Ottawa. Saint John will provide the back-drop for the meeting today, hosted by Saint John MP Rodney Weston. He tells CHSJ News, when presented with the opportunity, he jumped at it.




There are various presenters lined up to meet with the caucus throughout the day and time set aside for members to deliberate on a number of issues. Members of the Atlantic Caucus include MP's, Ministers and Senators from the Atlantic region.

Saint John Fundy MLA Talks About Decision

(Saint John Fundy MLA Stuart Jaimeson)
         (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Saint John Fundy MLA Stuart Jaimeson is setting the record straight on why he was forced to resign his tourism minister's post a day after resigning from the Liberal caucus. He points out he did not break confidentiality as reported by the press but because he says the NB Power/Hydro Quebec proposal should be put to a vote. Jaimeson tells CHSJ News, he has faced some huge issues in his political career but this has been a huge burden.
Jaimeson says after serving since 1987, he will not re-offer in the fall provincial vote scheduled for September.27th.

Education Meetings Continue

If you have a child or children in a District Eight school, you might want to make note of this. The second in a series of five education town hall meetings is scheduled for tomorrow night. They are being hosted by District Eight and Education Chair Rob Fowler tells CHSJ News, they covered a wide variety of topics at the first meeting last month in Grand Bay Westfield.


Tomorrow night's meeting gets started at seven o'clock at Havelock School.

Seadogs have Some Company for the Memorial Cup

There is some company for the Saint John Seadogs and it's bid to host the 2012 Memorial Cup. The Halifax Mooseheads have officially entered the race as well and Dogs President Wayne Long tells CHSJ News, he isn't spending a lot of time thinking about who else is in the running.
Long adds not only is it a bonus for the team but huge spin-offs for Greater Saint John as well and feels the Seadogs bid is solid with a first class facility, upgrades to the scoreboard underway and some of the best junior talent from coast to coast. The Mooseheads hosted the Memorial Cup back in 2000.

New Stock Exchange in Saint John

This country's newest traders, the Canadian National Stock Exchange will make a presentation at the Trade and Convention Center today. It's being hosted by the New Brunswick Securities Commission and Executive Director Rick Hancox tells CHSJ News the newest stock exchange is geared towards emerging companies a;ong with those wanting to grow and are need of investment money to do so. The presentation gets started at nine o'clock in the Montagu Rooms.

Valentines for Vets in Grand Bay-Westfield

(Grand Bay-Westfield Mayor Grace Losier)

(File Photo)

It's a first for the Town of Grand-Bay Westfield as it pays tribute to Valentine's Day and their local Veterans. Residents are encouraged to sign a Valentine and Mayor Grace Losier says they will be distributed to as many local vets as possible.
The Valentines are available for signing at the Town office from 9am to 5pm until Friday. Local schools will also be taking part. Losier likes the idea of acknowledging veterans outside of Remembrance Day.

Saint John Fundy M-L-A Stuart Jamieson Leaves Liberal Caucus

(Saint John Fundy M-L-A Stuart Jamieson)

(File Photo)

Saint John Fundy M-L-A Stuart Jamieson who was forced out of the provincial cabinet for his position on N-B Power has decided to leave the Liberal caucus. Jamieson was tourism minister until he was asked by Premier Shawn Graham to resign last week after insisting the proposed sale of 10 power plants to Hydro-Quebec be put to a public referendum. Jamieson says he stands by his decision and fears the public will not support the deal unless they have a say in it. He will continue to sit as a Liberal in the legislature and remains in support of the proposed agreement. Meantime, members of the Saint John Liberal Caucus continue to weigh in with their thoughts on Jamieson.Saint John Harbour and Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty tells CHSJ News he disagrees with Jamieson's stand on the issue and adds there is no crack in the caucus which, he claims, remains committed to the deal.

Future of Energy Hub And Second Reactor At Point Lepreau

The energy hub in Saint John is gone.........That word coming from University of Moncton Professor Yves Gagnon who's the K-C Irving Chair in Sustainable Development. He also tells CHSJ News you can pretty much forget about a second reactor at Lepreau ever being built because he sees nuclear power as transitional. On the other hand, Gagnon says the province has important renewable energy assets such as tidal power, biomass and could even become, in his words, the Saudi Arabia of wind power.

Update on Fire in Rothesay

(2 Arena Lane in Rothesay After Fire Raced Through Building)
                     (Picture by Jim Hennessy)

Investigators are getting close but there are still plenty of questions to be answered surrounding a fire in Rothesay last week. Kennebecasis Chief Larry Greer tells CHSJ News, they now know the fire got started in a piece of furniture outside of the building but are ruling nothing out at this point. Test results have been sent for analysis and should be back in two weeks time. Rothesay Regional are also taking part in the investigation.


It was just after five in the morning last Thursday when flames were spotted at 2 Arena Lane. When crews got the fire under control, the top left hand side of the building was gutted and left several families with no place to call home and most of their belongings in ashes.

Opponents of NB Power Sale Hope to Persuade Liberal M-L-A's

Opponents to the sale of parts of NB Power to Hydro Quebec are hoping to persuade 6 Liberal M-L-A's to either vote against the agreement or abstain. Tom Mann of the Coalition to Stop the Sale tells CHSJ News that possibility is not as far fetched as you might think. He says the M-L-A's who want to be re-elected will have to ask themselves if they want to go over the cliff with the Premier in his determination to push the NB Power through.
Mann also says there are other M-L-A's who are retiring and don't want this bitter controversy to be their legacy of public service.

JD Irving Talks About NB Power/Hydro Quebec Proposal

They have been quiet through most of the process but J.D. Irving is now speaking about the NB Power/Hydro Quebec proposal and how it affects them. Spokes-person Mary Keith tells CHSJ News, the company is one of 15 out of 20 industries in the Province that exports and is energy intensive.


Keith adds this proposal not only solidifies good paying jobs in the forest industry but jobs for many industries right across the Province.

Elsie Wayne is Out of Hospital

(Former Mayor and MP Elsie Wayne)
              (File Photo)

After spending over three months in the hospital, a former Mayor and MP is home and continues her recovery. Elsie Wayne suffered a stroke back in November but was released from the Regional on Tuesday of last week. Her husband Richard tells CHSJ News, she is still in a wheel-chair but is making use of a walker.
Richard adds extramural staff have been coming to their home to help with rehabilitation and Elsie is feeling stronger every day.

Back to Business at Moosehead

No major damage to the facility following an ammonia leak at Moosehead Breweries yesterday. Crews are back on shift and beer is being bottled after the facility was evacuated yesterday afternoon. Vice-President of Communications Joel Levesque tells CHSJ News, the response by emergency crews was phenomenal.
Levesque adds the two men who were working in the area were taken to hospital and one has been released while the other is still in hospital for observation but appears to be fine.

Google Street Level Saint John is On-Line

If you remember last year seeing a vehicle travelling around Greater Saint John with a camera on top of it, you can now see what they were up to. Google spent a few weeks in the area taking pictures for it's street level technology and Saint John is now available.


It gives you an amazing look at any street in the area and even an up close look at your property. To check it out click here.

Public Forum on NB Power Deal Held At U-N-B-S-J Overwhelmingly Against

There was a good turnout last night at the University for a public forum on the deal to sell parts of NB Power to Hydro Quebec with lots of questions. The K-C Irving Chair in Sustainable Development at the University of Moncton, Yves Gagnon tells CHSJ News the provincial government is putting the horse before the cart because it should first develop an energy strategy before selling off any assets.
Gagnon told the forum when the Point Lepreau nuclear power plant starts to make money, its ownership will be transferred to Hydro Quebec and he quotes Quebec Premier Jean Charest as saying the second deal is even better for his province. Gagnon argues the 41 large industrial customers in New Brunswick are going to be subsidised to the tune of 245 dollars by each ratepayer in the province. He also warns there's a debate going on in Quebec right now about whether its power rates are too low.

Mayor of Grand Bay-Westfield Remains Optimistic Despite Setbacks

(Grand Bay-Westfield Mayor Grace Losier)

(File Photo)

The Mayor of Grand Bay-Westfield says Fort Reliance scrapping plans to build Irving Oil's world headquarters at Long Wharf is disapointing news. Grace Losier concedes having that presence on the waterfront would have been great.
Losier adds while she is disappointed, the decision not to proceed with a second oil refinery in Red Head had more of a negative impact and she remains optimistic there will be other opportunities for Grand Bay-Westfield and greater Saint John.

Rothesay Likes Some But Not All Of The Finn Report on Local Government

(Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop)

(File Photo)

The Town of Rothesay can't fully endorse the Finn Report on Local Government, but does like some of the financial benefits contained in the report.
Mayor Bill Bishop says the town feels it isn't being treated fairly when it comes to the unconditional grants, and the Finn Report is looking to remove the grants.
Bishop says another change is the elimination of provincial property tax on rented properties and adds the town could begin collecting that money.
The town is expecting a net gain of $635 thousand dollars from the change. Despite all that, Bishop says the town cannot get completely behind the report because the regionalization aspects.

Full House on Hand at St. Marks Church

(Crowd Gathers at St. Marks Church for Info Session)
                     (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Plenty of opinions were on display at an information session hosted by Health Minister and Quispamsis MLA Mary Schryer last night. The guest speaker was Energy Minister Jack Keir, on hand to answer questions and concerns about the NB Power/Hydro Quebec proposal. Many came armed with facts and their passion on their sleeve including Albert Comeau who among other things said he is sad to be from Quispamsis. After asking his question he looked at Both Minister Schyer and Keir and asked them who is pushing them to commit political suicide.


Minister Schryer's daughter Aaron was also on hand and got up to adress the crowd to let them know how disrspectful it had been acting. The question asked by most people on hand to Minister Keir was, if this is such a positive deal for everyone in this Province.....then what is the rush to have it done by the end of next month.

Minister Keir Speaks to Full House in Quispamsis

(Energy Minister Keir Speaks to Crowd in Quispamsis)
                (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

After being bombarded with questions for over an hour, Energy Minister Keir didn't stick around long to speak with the media. He was scheduled for another engagement at nine but when asked by CHSJ News, what is the rush to have the deal done by the end of next month, the Minister says this deal will benefit every rate payer in the Province and it's the right thing to do.
That wasn't good enough for many as the hecklers continued to press the Minister with get rid of the deal and out it to a vote.

New Home Construction Off To A Good Start

The new year is off to a solid start on the housing front in greater Saint John -- the latest report from Canada Mortgage and Housing shows new home construction is up 28-percent in the first month of the year against January a year ago.
The federal housing agency says new multiple family units are leading the way so far this year.
Meantime -- new housing starts are also up in Moncton and Fredericton.

Shooting Update in Lower Norton

Aggravated assault is the charge Scott and Adam Quigley are facing. The brothers made a brief court appearance this afternoon in Hampton. Both are free on bail until they re-appear in court next Tuesday. A 42-year man was shot in his home in Lower Norton Friday morning of last week and is listed in serious but stable condition at the Regional.
RCMP did get a statement last night from the man who was shot.

Ammonia Leak at Moosehead

Two men were sent to the Regional just afternoon today after an amonia leak in the brewing operation of Moosehead on the West-Side. Vice-President of Communications Joel Levesque tells CHSJ News, the building has and will remain evacuated for the rest of the day. Levesque adds at this point all levels being taken by the Haz-Mat unit are negative.


Both men have been treated at hospital and are doing fine.

Minister Schryer Rolls Out New System

     (Health Minister Schryer Speaks at the Regional)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The final report for the Provincial trauma system has been unveiled by Health Minister Mary Schryer. It includes a new toll free trauma line and no-refusal policy which are both expected to be in place by the spring. Schryer says despite a few growing pains.....the system works.
The committee which put together the report was chaired by former health minister Dr. Dennis Furlong and includes senior staff and medical representatives from each regional health authority.

Trauma Center Doctor Speaks to the Media

(Dr. Marcelle Martin at the Podium Speaking at the Regional)
                  (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Dr. Marcelle Martin is the Director of the Provincial Trauma Care Center and says despite recent claims, he is living in this Province. His position is also under fire after it took 12 hours for a Bathurst woman to receive emergency care at the Regional Hospital after an accident. Dr. Martin admits the current practise of handing out his cell-phone number for consultation doesn't work.
There are 600 critical trauma cases in this Province every year. The new system will see a trauma team physcian leader for the level 1, 2 and 3 centers.

Rothesay Conservative MLA Weighs in on Trauma Set-Up

(Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney)
                (File Photo)

One of the people most critical of why it took so long to present the system was on hand for the announcement. Conservative MLA for Rothesay Margaret Ann Blaney tells CHSJ News, the direction that has been outlined is probuably the best way to go.
Blaney adds she agree's with the policy of no-patient refused but is still nervous about the current set-up of Dr. Martin be contacted by cell-phone in an emergency until the toll free trauma line is set up.

More Reaction to Stuart Jaimeson Decision

              (Business Minister Victor Boudreau)
                   (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Another Minister in the Graham cabinet is weighing in on the loss of Stuart Jamieson. The MLA for Saint John Fundy was asked to resign his Tourism portfolio after saying he felt the NB Power/Hydro Quebec proposal should go toa referendum. Business Minister Victor Boudreau says he believes in this deal and isn't concerned about his political future.


Boudreau adds while he respects Jaimeson and his decision, he broke the confidentiality of cabinet. Boudreau was the guest speaker at a luncheon in Saint John today put on by the Rotary Club.

Saint John Portland MLA Questions Latest Move

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

Saying it's a sad day for democracy, the MLA for Saint John Portland is stunned with the latest move by Premier Graham. Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson was forced to resign from his cabinet post on Friday in light of his stance on the revised NB Power deal. Jamieson believes the decision should go to a referendum and Trevor Holder tells CHSJ News, in seven and a half years, he can't re-call his government pressuring him to do something he didn't agree with.


CHSJ News has left several messages for the Saint John Fundy MLA to get his reaction but have yet to hear back. Jamieson has told our news room recently he is expected to make a decision on whether or not to re-offer in the fall election by next month.

Radio Renovations Rolling Along

The finish line is in sight as far as the renovations to our radio stations here on King Street is concerned. The walls are in place, a coat of paint has been rolled out and the new carpets are down. Crews from FCC also have a good portion of the electric work done as they now wait for a few more supplies to show to finish up the job.


If everything stays on track, phase one of the $500,000 project should be finished by the end of the month. If you want to get a look at the lay-out, you can go to country94.ca and click news or the wave.ca.

Radio Renovations Week Five

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.