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.

Radio Renovations Week Four

Skate to Care

It's not just officials at the Regional Hospital Foundation getting geared up for this years Investors Group Skate to Care. Angela Morris is getting Musquash ready to stage it's own event. This is the fourth year they have done it, the second where they registered. Morris tells CHSJ News, it's plenty of fun for the entire community:

Morris says last year theye raised $2400 dollars and hope to get close to $3000 next month.

Provincial Leaders Recognize Senate Appointment

[M-L-A Rose-May Poirer----File Photo]

The Premier is extending his congratulations to recent senate appointee New Brunswick MLA Rose-May Poirer.
Shawn Graham says although the two have disagreed on public policy matters in the past, he has always held Poirer in high regard for her work on behalf of the province.
Poirer will be one of the newest members of the senate as of February 28th.
Provincial Tory Leader David Alward is also congratulating Poirer on the recent appointment.

New Brunswick Student Alliance Responds to State of the Province Address

The New Brunswick Student Alliance is pleased with the Premiers commitment to make post secondary education more affordable.
During the State of the Province Address, Premier Graham said twice his government will be working to further expand programs on students loans, and will make post secondary education more affordable for students.
President Duncan Gallant says it's necessary the Graham Government follow through on the commitments because right now many students do not qualify for the student debt cap, or the timely completion benefit.

Energy Minister Jack Keir at Harbour Station

Senator Pleased With New Appointments

Senator John Wallace says it's good the Senate is finally at par with the House of Commons in terms of Tory representatives.

Wallace tells CHSJ News, the new appointments will allow government legislation through the Senate, because the Liberal Government no longer has more seats than the Tories.
Wallace says the new Senators will allow more justice related legislation to pass.
He says a a bill will be moved soon to cap a Senators run at 8 years, and also to make a Senate seat a vote based position.

Upgrades to Video System at Harbour Station

[Energy Minister Jack Keir----Photo by Dave Briggs]

The Energy Minister was in town for what he calls a pleasure to announce.
All three level of governments are kicking in over $350 thousand dollars to upgrade the video system at Harbour Station.
Jack Keir says when the call went out for funding, he and colleague M-L-A Roly McIntryre took it to the Premier and said it's an important project for the city, but for Harbour Station and the Seadogs.
The updated scoreboard will feature HD technology, and Mayor Ivan Court says now the scoreboard will reflect the same quality off the ice as there is on the ice.
The project is estimated to be completed before March 31st, 2011.

Harbour Bridge Discussions Continue

[Saint John M-P Rodney Weston----Photo by Dave Briggs]

Saint John M-P Rodney Weston says discussions are still on going with the province and the Harbour Bridge Authority about the funding issue.

Weston tells CHSJ News, the end isn't here, but hopefully close.
Weston says the Harbour Bridge has been the topic of most of the conversations he has been having lately, specifically with Minister Keith Ashfield, who is responsible for the Atlantic Gateway.

No Complaints About Closing Schools

District 8 isn't receiving any phone calls about why school was closed today.

This comes after receiving several complaints from parents on Monday, when the expected bad weather never showed up.
A spokesperson for the district tells CHSJ News, everyone seems to be in agreement that closing schools today was the right decision.
This is the second day this week schools in District 8 and 6 were closed due to weather, and only the second snow day of the year.

Highway One Disruption of Traffic

Construction of the One Mile Interchange will be disrupting traffic along Highway One in the vicinity of Crown Street this afternoon. Andrew Holland of the Provincial Transportation Department tells CHSJ News traffic will be closed both ways along the highway around 2:00 to allow for blasting and the subsequent cleanup. Holland doesn't expect the highway in that area to be blocked for anymore than 20 minutes.

Weathermaker Surprises Saint John

(File Photo)

Saint John is expected to wind up with 10 to 15 centimeters of snow with higher totals in the K-V and Sussex from the latest weathermaker. Jeremy March of Environment Canada tells CHSJ News the storm system turned out to be more intense than was originally forecast. March warns it will turn windy and alot colder this afternoon as well. All schools are closed today in Districts 6 and 8. Just the mainland schools will be closed today in District 10 and exams scheduled for today will be held on Monday. Samuel de Champlain in District 1 will also be shut down for the day.

Sergeant Mark Gallagher's Funeral in Woodstock

(Sergeant Mark Gallagher)

(File Photo)

Friends, family and hundreds of police officers from across the country have remembered a Mountie from this province who was killed in the devastating earthquake in Haiti. About 700 police officers marched in a procession to St. Gertrude's Roman Catholic Church in Woodstock before the R-C-M-P regimental funeral for Sergeant Mark Gallagher. His friend, Reverend Karl Ingersoll, spoke of a man who dedicated his life to serving others. His wife Lisa spoke of a man with a generous heart who was conflicted about his service in Haiti and spoke of the overwhelming poverty he saw there. Some 350 people packed the small brick church for the service, while an overflow of mourners watched the funeral on television at a local civic centre in Woodstock and at the Moncton Wesleyan Church.

Energy Minister Apologizes

(Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir)

(File Photo)

Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir has apologized to the legislature after earlier claiming N-B Power president David Hay voted in favour of a 3.2-(b)-billion-dollar electricity deal with Hydro-Quebec. Keir says he was given the wrong information in a staff briefing and later found out Hay had actually abstained from the vote. Opposition Energy critic Paul Robichaud is suggesting the reason Hay abstained is that he doesn't support the NB Power deal. Hay is saying one way or the other.

Premier's State of the Province Address

(Premier Shawn Graham)

(File Photo)

Premier Shawn Graham says his government has been pressing ahead with reforms and should have done a better job communicating. Graham says his state of the province speech last night was an effort to better explain the changes his government has made, and connect the dots to the goal of creating self-sufficiency. The Premier also says communities in New Brunswick will be able to generate their own electricity and sell it to N-B Power. Only brief details of the plan last night as part of his state of the province address. Graham says it will mean more renewable energy generated within the province and help meet objectives of his government's climate action plan. Further details will be announced in a few weeks.
About 150 opponents to the deal to sell assets of N-B Power to Hydro-Quebec protested outside prior to the speech.

Economic Growth Report Results

A report conducted by CIBC on the state of provincial economys shows the Maritimes will unlikely repeat the success of 2009.

The report states economic growth in the Maritimes will not like outperform other provinces like it did weathering the economic downturn, and any gains will likely be insignificant.
CIBC is predicting New Brunswick will appear more attractive to industry due to lower power rates, and tax cuts, but sectors like forestry and business services will suffer do to some capital investments being put off.
Saskatchewan will lead in economic growth with a 3 per cent gain. New Brunswick is looking at a 2.2 per cent gain, and the slowest expansion comes from PEI at 1.8 per cent.

Oromocto RCMP Searching for Assault Suspect

[Lonnie Dellas Carr---Photo Courtesy of the RCMP]

A follow up to a story we first told you about Saturday----The RCMP are on the lookout for a 45 year old man from Fredericton Junction in relation to aggravated assault, evading police, and discharging a firearm.

Lonnie Dellas Carr was charged following an incident on Saturday where the RCMP responded to a complaint involving a handgun.
The suspect used a handgun to get into a home of an acquaintance and assaulted the person causing serious injury.
RCMP are asking if anyone sees Carr to call them or Crime Stoppers immediately and not to approach him.

A Group to "Save Our Horses"

The decision to close the Rockwood Park Horse Barn has riled a few Saint Johnners, some of whom are now wearing sweaters with "Save Our Horses" stickers on them. Brian Stone of Citizens for Fair Taxation tells CHSJ News if the move is being made to save a few dollars, it's ill conceived.

Stone also says it appears some members of Common Council are in the dark believing that negotiations are still going on.

Reaction to NB Power CEO Resignation

All was not well in the camp of NB Power's Board of Directors over the proposed sale of some of the assets to Hydro Quebec. That's the take of Tom Mann of the Coalition opposing the sale and points to David Hay's announced departure this week as President and C-E-O. He says those who are opposed to the deal have very different reasons for doing so.

Mann says a third group believes the province would be giving up control of its energy future with the sale.

NB Power Court Challenge

A monkey wrench has been thrown in the works as far as the legal challenge to the NB Power sale is concerned. The Provincial Government is sticking with the legal provision that 2 months notice is required in writing which would delay matters until the time when the revised agreement is supposed to be approved. The court challenge is being filed in the name of Auguste Gallant who worked many years for the province.

Gallant says even if the deal is signed, sealed and delivered, a judge can still rule it's illegal and declare it null and void.

Rally to Oppose Sale of NB Power Assets

Saint Johners opposed to the sale of NB Power are invited to a rally today at the intersection of St. Patrick and Union Street at 4:30.

The demonstration is in collaboration with the No To the Sale of NB Power rally being held at the University of New Brunswick Student Union Building in Fredericton tonight where the Premier will be delivering his State of the Province address.

Four New ER Doctors at the Regional

The Regional Hospital is welcoming four new emergency department physicians.

Dr. Paul Atkinson, Dr. Matthew Grabove, Dr. Peter Ross, and Dr. Glenn Verheul will all be joining the department for both clinical and academic work.
Head of Emergency Medicine at the hospital Dr. Michael Howlett says the recruitment of these four doctors is a major step towards ensuring long term stability of the department.
All four doctors are also a part of the Dalhousie University Emergency Medicine Faculty.

Hampton RCMP Looking for Vehicle Thief

The RCMP in Hampton are looking for the person responsible for nabbing a pick up truck from a driveway last night.

A 33 year old Kingston man reported his 2005 Dodge Ram truck stolen from his yard just after midnight.
The vehicle is described as white, with the license plate number CNT-727, and had a snowmobile in the back.

Price of Milk To Rise Next Week

Milk will cost you a bit more starting Monday. It has been announced by the Farm Products Commission that the price will be rising by one cent a litre as of February 1st. The Farm Commission terms the increase modest saying operating costs were kept down because of lower fuel prices. School milk prices will remain the same for another year. The Commission says processors and operators subsidise that programme at a cost of 1.3 million dollars a year.

Saint John Improves Position in Monopoly Voting

Uptown restaurant owners, Saint John's Mayor and MP and the President of the Board of Trade are encouraging everyone to vote and get the Port City on a new version of the board game Monopoly. You can vote once a day at monopolyvote.ca. Saint John is ahead of Fredericton in the voting and currently sits at 55th out of 65 cities. 20 cities will be chosen for the game.

Gas Prices Are Down Again

Gas prices are continuing to go down following the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular is almost a cent a litre cheaper at 101.3. It's being sold in the city for 98.7. The maximum that can be charged for diesel is 105.3 which is a tad lower and is being sold in Saint John for 102.6. Furnace oil is at 88.7 and propane, 115.5. In Grand Bay-Westfield this morning, the price for self serve regular is 97.7 a litre and diesel is being sold for 101.6.

Atlantic Coastal Action Program on New Municipal Plan

The Atlantic Coastal Action Program is hoping the Municipal Plan will include lots of green ideas. Executive Director Tim Vickers tells CHSJ News, the plan is a way to change some not-so environmentally friendly ways. Vickers says people need to get involved, because the more people who come forward the better the process works. He adds the opportunity to conserve some environmental areas is paramount to the future of this city.

City Looking For Input Into Municipal Plan

(Plan SJ Headquarters in Brunswick Square)

(File Photo)

The city is officially launching PlanSJ and is looking for your ideas for the new Municipal Plan which will be used to shape the city for the next 25 years. Deputy Commissioner of Planning Jaqueline Hamilton tells CHSJ news, the city is welcoming every resident to pop into the Plan SJ headquarters in Brunswick Square.
The headquarters will be open for the next two years and the Municipal Plan is expected to be released late 2011.

The light are back for some in Quispamsis

Power has been restored to several hundred people in Quispamis but, over 200 are still in the dark.

NB Power spokesperson Marianne Limpert says the power outtage was caused by a broken pole.
She says that is usually caused by high winds or a vehicle accident.
She expects that power will be restored to everyone between 8:30pm and 9:30pm this evening.

Limpert says the lights went out just after 3:30 this afternoon.

NB Power's Board of Directors not pressured to support deal

NB Power has a bright future under the revised agreement with Hydro Quebec.
That word from Ed Barrett, a member of NB Power's Board of Directors. He tells CHSJ News there was no goverment pressure on the board to come out in support of the deal and it would be unfair to blame outgoing C-E-O David Hay for NB Power's massive multi-billion dollar debt.
Barret credits Hay with the settlement he helped achieve on the Orimulsion deal.
Barrett says the settlement was beneficial to the province. He also tells us a permanent replacement for Hay will not be made until after the proposed agreement with Hydro Quebec is approved.

Coaliton opposed NB Power Sale gets independent panel to review the deal

The Coalition formed to Save NB Power from being sold to Hydro Quebec has released what it calls an independent evaluation of the proposed agreement. Greg Cook of the Coalition tells CHSJ News many of those who collaborated on this report have helped to build NB Power's assets and they have reached a conclusion that this is a great deal for Hydro Quebec.
Cook says what NB Power should be doing is charging Hydro Quebec for use of the transmission lines within this province.

Soldiers start training in 8 regional municipalities today

8 communities in the region will be buzzing with activity as soldiers from CFB Gagetown conduct driver training over the next 4 weeks.

If you live in Maugerville, McGowan's Corner, Sheffield or Mactaquac Dam expect to see military vehicles.
The training will also be happening in Welsford, Lincoln, Tracy and in Fredericton.
The driver training starts today and continues until February 26.

Mischief charges pending

Hampton RCMP spent several hours on Monday morning at what turned out to be a wild goose chase.
Charges of public mischief are pending after police went looking for an injured man who was trapped in a vehicle that left the road.
They never found him and the information leading to the complaint was proven wrong.

More Security for Premier's State of the Province Address

(Premier Shawn Graham)

(File Photo)

There will be more police on hand than usual for Premier Shawn Graham's state of the province address tomorrow night in Fredericton. Organizers made the decision after hearing someone opposed to the NB Power sale may try to interrupt the Premier's speech. The president of the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, Lee Winchester confirms more police have been hired for the event at the Aitken University Centre. Protests are planned outside the venue but one of the organizers, Dennis Atchison maintains the demonstration will be a sombre one to reflect the lack of input he feels people in the province have had in the process.

K-V Fire Department Budget Controversy

(Quispamsis Mayor Murray Driscoll)

(File Photo)

The Mayor of Quispamsis is looking to set the record straight about needing to hire an arbitrator to settle the Kennebacasis Fire Department budget. Murray Driscoll tells CHSJ News, hiring a third party to settle the issue doesn't mean there is a feud with the town of Rothesay, it's just part of the process. Driscoll says the station in Quispamsis needs a fourth firefighter. The request for arbitration stems from the KV Fire Department needing to cut 100 thousand dollars from it's budget, and Rothesay doesn't want a new firefighter hired.

Revised NB Power Gets Examination

The Atlantic Institute for Market Studies had an energy expert in Maine examine the new Memorandum of Understanding to sell NB Power's assets to Hydro Quebec. Gordon Weil of Standard Energy says the deal has improvements over the original proposal. A.I.M.S. President Charles Cirtwell tells CHSJ News the fact is the Liberal goverment has a majority and if it wants it passed it will be done. Without staking out a position on whether or not the proposed agreemwent should be approved, Cirtwell says Weil is still concerned over an inevitable price hike for consumers in year six of this deal after the rate freeze comes to an end.

Armed Robbery at Saint John Hotel

City Police reporting an armed holdup early this morning at the Colonial Inn on City Road. They tell CHSJ News one person entered the hotel and demanded cash but was arrested a short time later. The 17 year old suspect is expected in court this morning to be charged.

Keir reacts to NB Power CEO stepping down

Energy Minister Jack Keir doesn't think there is anything suspicious about the timing of David Hay's resignation as CEO of NB Power.
Keir tells CHSJ news that the NB Power Board of Directors has taken a neutral approach to the sale of NB Power's assets to Hydro Quebec.
Keir says he has a great working relationship with Hay over the last 3 years.
David Hay has been honoured three times as one of Atlantic Canada's Top 50 CEOs.

N-B Power C-E-O Out

N-B Power is minus it's CEO -- David Hay has stepped down from the post -- the former top man at the utility hasn't had much to say since the provincial government first announced plans to sell N-B Power to Hydro Quebec last fall.
We are told Hay is remaining quiet on the proposed deal including the changes announced last week.
A formal statement from the utility's board of directors is expected shortly.