Category: Saint John

Python Trial

No reasons have been given for the dismissal of a juror from a criminal negligence trial in the deaths of two young New Brunswick boys killed by an escaped python.

Judge Fred Ferguson says the juror was relieved from her duties after a lengthy hearing, but added the trial in Campbellton will “soldier on” with 11 jurors — seven women and four men.

Jean-Claude Savoie has pleaded not guilty to criminal negligence causing death after the two brothers were killed by an African rock python that escaped from its enclosure during a sleepover with Savoie’s son.

The case is expected to go to the jury by the middle of next week.

Ocean Group

A new agreement has been signed between the New Brunswick government and Ocean Group, allowing the marine services company to resume operations out of the province’s naval centre in Bas-Caraquet.

Under the new agreement, Ocean Group will resume construction of a floating dry dock on November 21st at the shipyard.

Ocean Group C-E-O Jacques Tanguay says the dry dock construction is an ideal project to revive shipbuilding and repair activities, adding the company is looking for skilled workers.

The company will pay increased rent for use of the facility and will be responsible for the maintenance and repair of all equipment, including its future replacement.