Newly appointed Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships, Senator Joel Rayne said his rapid rise within government has left him feeling both grateful and surprised.

Speaking shortly after his appointment at Government House, Rayne described the experience as “surreal,” noting that only days earlier he had been sworn in as a government senator.

“It’s a surreal feeling. But in anything you do, you must give God thanks,” Rayne said, while also thanking Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Cabinet for placing their trust in him.

Rayne admitted he did not expect the promotion to come so quickly after entering the Senate.

“Honestly from last Friday, I didn’t expect this promotion that quickly,” he said.

The new parliamentary secretary said he intends to focus on economic development, governance and increased engagement with local private sector partners.

“I’m looking at the continuation of the building out of the economy for the betterment of all Antiguans and Barbudans, especially the most vulnerable,” he said.

Rayne also encouraged young people not to limit their ambitions.

“When you have a dream and aspirations, don’t put any time frame on it, don’t put the limit on it. As long as you’re alive, you can achieve that goal,” he said.