Governor General

The Governor General of Canada is Michaëlle Jean. Canada is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. This means Canadians recognize The Queen as our Head of State. Canada's Governor General carries out Her Majesty's duties in Canada on a daily basis and is Canada's de facto Head of State.

The Governor General represents The Queen who is the Head of State and is appointed by The Queen on the advice of Canada's Prime Minister. Our Governor General is Michaëlle Jean.

For many years now, the Governor General of Canada has bestowed upon the Children's Aid Society of Ottawa Vice-Regal Patronage. Receiving Vice-Regal Patronage is a honour and shows the
Governor General's commitment to our organization
and to our children and youth.

In April of 2006, the Governor General (known as Her Excellency), invited Foster Parents and Youth in Care for a reception at Rideau Hall. Many youth from Ottawa had the opportunity to attend and to speak to her directly about what it means for youth to be in care.

The Governor General keeps youth issues close at heart and has dedicated a website to youth issues. Click here for the website. (http://www.citizenvoices.gg.ca/en/themes/youth)

Click here for a message from Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, to the youth in care of the Ottawa CAS.