Governor General Michaëlle Jean is out of the country right now on a state visit to some eastern European countries. Today, she's in Slovakia visiting a church and an art gallery and tomorrow she is in the Czech Republic where she has a series of events scheduled Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday, it's off to Slovenia until next Saturday when she returns home.
Of course, Mme Jean may be required back at Rideau Hall much sooner than that.
Here's what her staff are telling reporters today:
The Office of the Secretary to the Governor General is following the situation closely.
Her Excellency is very aware of her constitutional responsibilities. Contingency plans are in place for her to return to Canada should this be required.
The Governor General is being briefed on a regular basis while continuing her heavy programme for the State visit. This visit is creating important links with these four member countries of the European Union.