Harper may not extend Jean’s term as Governor General
Posted Apr 3, 2010 3:17 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A report indicates Michaelle Jean’s days at Rideau Hall could be numbered.
The Toronto Star says it has learned Prime Minister Stephen Harper will not extend her five-year term as Governor General and is actively looking for a replacement.
Jean has served as the Queen’s representative in Canada since September of 2005.
Political Scientist Keith Brownsey tells 660News there have been persistent rumours that Harper and Jean don’t get along very well.
Brownsey says people need to understand just how important her position is, because in effect she chooses who the government is.
“If there’s another minority government and all the polls point in that direction, she chooses the individual who will lead the government and who can command the confidence of the House of Commons.”
Meantime, a spokesperson for Canadian icon Rick Hansen is denying reports that the man in motion has been approached to be the next Governor General.
Erin McMillan says Hansen has not been asked, formally or otherwise, to take over the job from Michaelle Jean at the end of her five-year term.
McMillan says speculation about Hansen potentially taking over the position surfaces every year.
She says Hansen would be honoured if he was asked to take on the role, but his current priorities involve spinal cord research.
