Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has withdrawn from a planned trip to China this week, on medical advice and in order to enable doctors to carry out a medical assessment, according to Sinn Féin.
Northern Ireland's First Minister, Arlene Foster, had travelled to China last Sunday without Mr McGuinness, after it was announced he would not be accompanying her due to "unforeseen personal circumstances".
The brief statement issued this evening said Mr McGuinness is fulfilling his responsibilities as Deputy First Minister, working with his department political advisers.
It also stated there has been no disruption to the work of the Executive Office during this period.
It is likely doctors will complete their assessments while Stormont is in recess during the Christmas period and there are no indications that Mr McGuinness might step aside temporarily, as happened for health reasons with his previous partner in government, the former DUP leader, Peter Robinson.
In a statement this evening Sinn Féin's President, Gerry Adams said: "I'm sure everyone who values his work will send best wishes to Martin, Bernie and their family.
"I met with Martin as normal on Monday at Stormont. I have been in regular contact with him since and he is totally committed to fulfilling his duties.”
