Mayor Larry O'Brien has announced the day he will temporarily step aside to deal with court proceedings on charges of influence peddling.

O'Brien will begin leave without pay on Saturday May 2nd.

The case goes to court on May 4th and could last six to nine weeks.

The crown contends O'Brien offered to help Terry Kilrea with a federal appointment if he dropped out of the election race for Mayor.

Councillor Michel Bellmare will become acting Mayor.