Newly appointed Senator Shaquan O'Neil says he views his historic elevation to the Upper House not as a personal reward, but as a weighty responsibility to represent the nation's young people and expand opportunities for youth across Antigua and Barbuda.
According to Antigua News Room, O'Neil — who at 22 is among the country's youngest senators — spoke shortly after Friday's swearing-in ceremony at Government House, describing himself as "elated" by the appointment and the trust placed in him by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.
"I'm honestly elated, given the fact that the Prime Minister placed this trust in me, not only to be in the Senate, but also as one of the youngest senators," O'Neil said.
Reflecting on remarks made during the ceremony, the new senator was candid about the weight he attaches to the role. "Not to take these appointments as a reward, but it's a burden and also a part of the legacy that you must be able to represent — not only the presence of Antigua and Barbuda, but especially the youth," he said.
O'Neil identified youth inclusion in national decision-making as an immediate priority, arguing that too many societies fail to bring young people meaningfully into the conversation. "I want to be able to ensure that I provide a space for young persons within the room," he said. "I think many times you have societies that are not inclusive to the fact that they're bringing in youth."
Youth unemployment is another issue the senator intends to tackle head-on. "Youth unemployment will also be a big thing," O'Neil said. "I want to be able to provide a platform and also advocate for them to get the necessary training and equip themselves with the necessary knowledge so that, when opportunities come, such as employment and also elevation, they are well knowledgeable and equipped to take on the world."
He also expressed a desire to mainstream programmes aimed at boosting youth participation in democracy and governance, saying civic awareness among young Antiguans and Barbudans remains a critical area of need.
Asked about his initial reaction to learning he was being considered for the Senate, O'Neil said his thoughts turned quickly to the work ahead. "I was excited, to be honest with you. I was mainly just thinking about going on with the business of the government," he said.
Looking further ahead, the young senator said he is eager to collaborate with ministers and fellow senators to deliver tangible results. "I'm excited to see how much I'll be able to get done, especially speaking with some of the ministers and my senators as well, to see how best we can just make our tenure one of the most fruitful tenures that you've ever seen in Antigua and Barbuda," O'Neil said.
O'Neil was among 10 government senators sworn in on Friday following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party's victory in the April 30 general election. He is expected to formally take his seat when the Senate convenes on May 20.
