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.

Doctor Fighting to Keep CBC Facility

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

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

Meeting Yields No Major Breakthroughs on Blood Distribution Centre Move

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

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

Final Day to Vote for Monopoly Spot

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

Church Officials Do Not Want To Be A Heritage Site

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

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

Skate to Care Fastly Approaching

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

Police Chief Thankful for Volunteer Group

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

Fire Destroys Cottage

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

Earthquake near Sussex

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

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

More Trauma Issues

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

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

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

Fight For Rainbow Park Continues

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

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

New Telus Wireless Feature

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

RCMP Make Arrest in Relation to Shooting

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

Uptown Fight Results in 4 Arrests

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

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

Minister Resigns

[Stuart Jamieson---File Photo]

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

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

Shooting Victim in serious condition at the Regional Hospital

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

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

Major Crime Unit Looking for Your Help

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


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

Westfield Ferry will be running intermittently over the weekend

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

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

Health Critic Lashes Out Over Trauma Report Delay

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

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

Gunfire On The Peninsula

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

Market Square Gets a Make-Over

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

Bridge Authority Responds to Ministers Claim

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


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

Saint John Lawyer is Being Honored

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

Business on King Street is Closed

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

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

Energy Minister Jack Keir Answers Questions On Harbour Bridge Funding

Arson Suspected In Early Morning Fire

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

Harbour Bridge Funding Continues to Stir Controversy

(Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir)

(File Photo)

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