A civil trial involving a helicopter pilot charged with committing millions of dollars worth of vandalism to Hydro Quebec high tension power lines will get underway Tuesday, but the first order of business will be for the judge to hear the utility's case for the trial to be held behind closed doors.
Normand Dubé
is accused of using his helicopter in December of 2013, to drop objects on two of three Hydro transmission lines from James Bay which resulted in a power failure that left almost 200,000 homes and businesses without electrify for two days.
The Journal de Montreal says Hydro Quebec argues the case should be heard in camera for reasons of "national security".
The newspaper's parent company Quebecor will argue against the ban saying that as crown corporation it is in the public interest that the trial be open.
Hydro Quebec is seeking $30 million in damages.
Dubé has also pleaded not guilty to 13 criminal charges including public mischief and arson.