Senator Marc Gold, the Government Representative in the Senate, is currently in self isolation. He remains in good health and is not exhibiting any symptoms of the COVID-19 virus.

As the Senate prepares to be recalled on Wednesday, Senator Gold continues to work with Senate leadership in a spirit of collaboration with the health of Canadians as a top priority.

Senator Peter Harder, the former Government Representative in the Senate who lives in Ottawa, has agreed to sponsor the upcoming legislation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic when the Senate returns.

Senator Harder has been designated Acting Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate, as Legislative Deputy, Senator Raymonde Gagné, and Government Liaison, Senator Patti LaBoucane-Benson, will not be in the chamber in an effort to minimize long-distance travel.

Senate leadership has been discussing the recall of the Senate with an understanding that it is preferable for Senators who don’t have to travel by plane to Ottawa to be in attendance.

Measures will be in place to help ensure the health and safety of senators and staff when the Senate returns, including minimal staff and social distancing.

Senator Gold offers his sincere thanks to all Senators for working together during this public health crisis.