New Senator to remain as President of NYC

Benoit took his oath as a Senator last week
Benoit took his oath as a Senator last week

New Senator of the Dominica Labour Party (DLP), Jahisiah Benoit, has said his appointment to serve in the House of Assembly will not deter him from continuing to serve as President of the National Youth Council (NYC).

He described his appointment as a “historical achievement” for young people across the region.

Benoit took the oath of office last week at the First Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament.

He told Dominica News Online (DNO) in an interview on Wednesday that his new position is seen as a historical achievement for the youth movement across the region.

“I will be continuing as President of the National Youth Council, of course with support from the District Youth Council, Youth Division and other relevant authorities,” he revealed. “This is in fact a historical achievement for the youth movement across the region … we are making history as a Council and I think that the youth of this country appreciate that.”

According to Benoit the young people of Dominica have a voice and “they would like to see me continue to serve” as President of the NYC.

“So I am very much open to continue in serving as the President for as long as the youth of this country would like me to,” he stated.

He noted further that the DLP government is interested in empowering the youth so that they can bring about change and he would like to see the ideas of young people become a reality.

“And that is why I hope to bring ideas through the Minister of Youth and throughout the relevant ministries to make them see their ideas in small business creation, their ideas in community development, their ideas in personal and family development become a reality,” the Senator said.

He pointed out that he will be bring a level of dynamic to the House on behalf of the youth on the island.

“I think that I definitely will be bringing that dynamic to the House of Assembly on behalf of the youth and making them have a more responsible voice, not just a voice, but a hand that actually works with them at the grassroots level,” Benoit noted.

Benoit also pointed out that he is very elated and humbled by the opportunity given to serve as a Senator by Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit.

“I think it is a true demonstration of the appreciation of people within the Commonwealth of Dominica at all levels; civil society, private sector and government in terms of appreciating the voluntary efforts of youth and the ability to put their best foot forward,” he noted. “I take it very seriously and I have been reading the Standing Orders and familiarizing myself with relevant material to effectively serve in that position. I think it is an opportunity in the House of Assembly to add to the voice in support of the empowerment of our youth.”

Benoit hopes to bring ideas from the vast cadre of youth across the country and work with them directly to develop project proposals that “we can then champion within the government system and of course voice those developments within the House of Assembly.”

He revealed that the recent first session of the House was a great experience for him as a young person.

“To observe the procedures of parliament in respect to the Standing Orders so we can develop a better understanding as to how to adhere to them in the House in the future,” he said.

He stated the appointment to also serve on the Public Accounts Committee is an added responsibility which he will take very seriously.

“I understand fully that it will require for me to further expand my skill set in terms of serving on that committee,” Benoit noted.

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70 Comments

  1. Youth
    March 3, 2015

    The entire NYCD team are laborites!!

  2. Youth
    March 3, 2015

    It is all well and good to follow dreams and aspire for great things. Walking in the footsteps of Pierre Charles and Kelver Darroux who were both NYCD president.

    Mr. Benoit knows what he is about and should not abuse the youth for his positional gain

  3. Youth
    March 3, 2015

    Mr. Benoit should resign!!!

    NYC is a non-governmental organization here to represent the interest of all youth in Dominica.

  4. ShowMeTheFacts
    February 27, 2015

    I challenge ANY Dominican to give the name of ANYONE who has done more REAL WORK to uplift the Dominican youth that Senator Jahisiah Benoit.
    Politics aside. Please comment and give the names of the actual projects completed, initiatives launched and number of young people impacted by whoever claims to be better suited to lead the NYC.
    Feel free to post evidence such as articles etc.

    Thank you.

  5. PapaDom
    February 27, 2015

    Just thinking out loud. Does the NYC have a constitution and if it does, what does that constitution say on this issue?

    • uh huh
      February 27, 2015

      Obviously it allows him to still be president … a constitution which was there long before him BTW. just cause it aint in uwpites favor all you asking about constitution. stupes. go find something sensible to oppose stop being so political.

  6. No Nonsense
    February 26, 2015

    Won’t that be a conflict of interest.. that government yeah :lol: don’t trust them

  7. bold
    February 26, 2015

    What do those guys like Jahisiah think, nuh? Ok you were the president of NYC, when the youth thought you were non-partisan, a non-supporter of the Skerritt DLP Govt. a youth concerned about the corrupt practices and illegal acts being committed.

    Now that you are appointed a DLP senator, your allegiance, no doubt must be to Skerritt and the DLP Govt., certainly not to the youth of the country struggling and affected by unemployment, increased criminal acts, elecneglect of the productive sectors.

    Jahisiah cannot be a DLP senator and claim to take control of NYC as a non-partisan President. You trying to fit in size 12 shoes, when your size is 9?

    What about abuse of our young women by those in authority? Giving of 15 acres of our land to foreign concern. Selling of passports, a few making millions, secret diplomatic passport sales too, elections not FREE and FAIR, corruption for so, Jahisiah says nothing.

  8. NYC
    February 26, 2015

    These comments and likes should send a clear message to, Mr. Benoit; Resign!

    An NYC plays an important advocacy role on behalf of youth not political party. Since Mr Benoit became President NYC he only applauds government programmes and policies. I have never heard him critique government policy publicly asking for more sustainable youth employment or opportunities. NYC has become LYC, celebrating NEP (Not Employed Permanently) etc.. Come on Senator do the honourable thing give the NYC back to the Dominican youth. At least Deputy Speaker Ed my friend should advise you.

    Although Skerrit would not be pleased!

    • eye roll
      February 27, 2015

      Whoever, you are, you are not NYCD or the executive…. you don’t even sound like you know the person, the constitutions, or what you talking about. the job of the NYC is not to constantly critique the government in power is about empowering youth.. when something comes up to be spoken about that will happen.

      In the mean time… shut up.
      And that ‘not-permanently employed thing’ you need to get out. know that in many jobs in many countries a contract for a year or two is a standard thing…

      Before that were you even involved in the concerns of youth or you bitter blue people just want something to go on about?

  9. Wisdom
    February 26, 2015

    Jahisiah Benoit, you are certainly not in the best interest of the youths, because if you were the same way that others saw the leadership qualities in you then you would have seen the same in an other youth and relinquish the position. Do not break the ladder to prevent others from climbing. Remember this as you climb the ladder to success. 8) 8) 8)

  10. mornepatat
    February 26, 2015

    Congratulations young man,. But there should be no involvement in party political affairs. Kindly bow out and let another non-politically biased person step forward

  11. Truth and Justice
    February 26, 2015

    The National Youth counsel should propose the stepping down and appointement of a new leader as their leader is now unable to give the council his full attention. he now has conflict of interest as a political nominee, also he can still serve the youth without being its President if he is genuine.

  12. Rosa Parks
    February 26, 2015

    It is not about uwpites. From the minute someone decides to speak commonsense they are a uwp supporter. Oh please!!! It is the right thing that he should allow another youth the experience as NYC President and look ahead for a bright future in parliament. Nobody is angry at Mr. Benoit for being a senator, congrats to him but he needs to think of others as well. He was afforded a new opportunity so someone else should be afforded one to in respect to NYC President.

  13. Emile Zapatos
    February 26, 2015

    DNO What is a youth? After 17 years old are you still a youth? How young is the young man anyway?

    • uh huh
      February 27, 2015

      up to 35. in all our constitutions concerning youth here, us and uk.. get educated !

  14. Emile Zapatos
    February 26, 2015

    I think he should leave the DYC to some other youth. He can represent the youths and protect their interest as a member of the House.

  15. Big sis
    February 26, 2015

    Wow, w ow,congrats Jahasiah,from a humble beginning,I applaud you son, The skies the limit, serve yiur people wth honesty and pride, you are one in a million, we r proud of you, pay no mind to the naysayers.God bless you.

  16. goodie
    February 26, 2015

    Go young man GO the sky is the limit, other young once will follow. Ask Mr Winston, Mr Burton, Mr KFC etc.

    • OK
      February 26, 2015

      THE SKY starts from the ground by the way…

  17. goodie
    February 26, 2015

    Doing good is a BAD thing in Dominica. way papa.

    • Titiwi
      February 27, 2015

      Brainwashing our young people into the culture of a one-party state is good? That is exactly what Hitler did when he set up his Hitler Youth.

  18. Nac Vibes
    February 26, 2015

    This is insane. The title is National Youth Council not Labour Youth Council.

    I have no problem with the young man being a senator, but he should immediately relinquish his standing in the Youth Council.

    Correct me if I’m wrong, the National Youth Council represents the nations youth who are not all supporters of the Labour party and will have views contrary to his, how then will he treat them fairly.

    This is just a similar position as the speaker of the house.

  19. Doc. Love
    February 26, 2015

    The manner Benoit treated Hon Linton at the debate at the college last yea, r I had my suspicions. My suspicions are confirmed, it is a brand new red shoes de partner have been wearing.

    • uh huh
      February 27, 2015

      Linton was out of place. You send someone to represent you.. you just want to walk on stage and come talk and bypass the rules and moderator? nowhere in the world you see that happen? you have worse manners than Linton to support that .

  20. Truth Be Told
    February 26, 2015

    This is why everything in Dominica becomes politicised. You take up the senatorship and that is grate, congratulations to you. But please have the common sense to resign as President of the NYC, it is not apolitical organisation and your mere continued presence as its head politicises its operations. I wish you well and Godspeed.

    • The Facts
      February 27, 2015

      The word is “great”.

  21. youth empowerment
    February 25, 2015

    Labour party senator, future candidate of the Labour party?

    Senator Benoit congrats! but now that you’ve shown your true colours release the grip on the NYC man. The NYC is a non-partisan entity that should be divorced of partisan politics as far as is humanly possible.

    The point is made its time to allow for new youth leadership to emerge…..

  22. Erasmus B . Black
    February 25, 2015

    Considering that the recently appointed Senator and Deputy Speaker was also a former President of the National Youth Council, there is nothing historic here. If anything, the National Youth Council which is supposed to be an independent body has become a political platform, compromised by politicians furthering their own political agendas. To resign from the Council now would defeat the whole point of your appointment to parliament .

  23. February 25, 2015

    I applaud you and congratulate you on your accomplishments and your presence in the house of assembly as a distinguished senator is commendable. However as a youth in this country, I do not believe that you should not hold both positions. Your appointment as a senator by Mr. Skerrit leaves you as a partisan politician who would do more bad than good to the youths of Dominica since your loyalty will be to Mr. Skerrit and not to the youth of Dominica.
    You must understand that the youth of Dominica are of varied political persuasions and therefore the presidency of the National Youth Council should be totally apolitical. The youth of Dominica are not all red and those who are not aligned with the Dominica Labour Party should be confident that their issues and concerns would be addressed in a totally non-political manner.
    If you have the concerns of all the youth of Dominica step down and allow someone who is independent of political influence to lead the Council.

    Thank You Very…

  24. Birds View
    February 25, 2015

    Jahisiah Benoit, a young man of great promise, but is on the wrong track. Save your good name my brother, that’s all you have.

  25. Jupe
    February 25, 2015

    Absolutely not. Government getting foothold in all instiitutions ???.

  26. Nzingha
    February 25, 2015

    I would have resigned as president of the NYC on principle. Its the only decent thing to do Mr Benoit and you know it. You don’t have to wait on the youth of this country to tell you so;spare them the conflict.

  27. The Facts
    February 25, 2015

    Senator Benoit, congratulations to you. Many who appreciate you and the good works you have performed for the D/can youths are pleased that you will not relinquish the position as President of NYC. It is obvious that they want you to continue leading them and to be a mentor to them. The D/can youths need someone as you.
    People as you make me wish I was as young as you with all the opportunities that D/ca has to offer young people. Sadly, some do not see it as it is and embrace the opportunities that are available today.
    Those who support you and are broadminded know that you will continue the good work among the youths. They also know that it will not conflict with your Senator position.
    Some of us can handle more than one job and/or assignment at a time with no problem. Health wise, just take good care of yourself, eat healthily and try to get ample rest and sleep and you will be OK.
    God bless you!

    • Titiwi
      February 26, 2015

      Facts, you are so naive! Do you know you are talking about a supporter of the Chinese communist party here? Can your catholic conscience deal with that? Don’t you know how the Party in China interferes with appointment of bishops?

      • The Facts
        February 27, 2015

        Little Titiwi, this is your sole opinion. It does not represent me and my opinion. It does not represent certain people’s opinion. Your opinion has no bearing on this article whatsoever.
        People as you always criticize those who are on the side of the government. It is their prerogative to support which government they wish to. You support which party you wish and allow others to support the party of their choice. Do not be domineering and a communist which you are, the who project it.
        If you were a smart person you would stick to the issue. The article is not about China and the Chinese people and has absolutely nothing to do with them.
        You should appreciate it that China is enhancing D/ca by making it more beautiful. Be grateful. You lack this and other godly virtues.
        You are in no position to speak for me and my conscience. You do not know what is on my conscience. Only God knows.
        For one, you do not know me. Therefore, peace, perfect peace.

  28. truththe
    February 25, 2015

    Congratulations to you on your appointment as senator. It will definitely be conflict of interest for you to temain as ptesident, kindly do the noble thing resign as president of the youth council.

  29. Citizen Kane
    February 25, 2015

    If you had used better judgement you would have concluded that it is in the best interest of the NYC for you to relinquish your post, however true to form of those you admire you are already corrupted by the lust for power.

    I pray that those who advise you will have the foresight to warn you of the dangerous path your tread…

  30. Alister Irish
    February 25, 2015

    Kwame an Rosa parks live my parlrep alone labour ka twa. Vay

    • Rosa Parks
      February 26, 2015

      So this really is a Labour vibes…. I see so the The President of the NYC is really compromised. You all are making very obvious. @Alister Irish Praise God I don’t have to beg for nothing from these ppl

  31. alas
    February 25, 2015

    You can hold de position until you die in office.
    it doesn’t impress me that you are the only person
    Fit for the job. Obviously our young people can’t fit
    In your shoes……there seems to be no one out there
    Qualified and trained for the work that u do as president
    Of the National Youth Council……..you should be ashamed
    That among our entire population that you are de
    Best qualified until DLP is out of office. De NEP program can’t develop
    People with leadership qualities for the benefit of the. NYC……what a shame

  32. Tampa
    February 25, 2015

    There is no problem in being a senator young as you are. But commonsense should tell Mr. Benoit that he is not there as a representative of the NYC since it was not the NYC that recommended that he be their representative in Parliament. He was appointed by the DLP with the intension of having him contest the next general election in Roseau South. So whose bidding is he going to be doing? That of the NYC or that of the DLP that gave him this job. He should step down on principle as President of NYC and continue his political work in parliament. There are lots of talented youth who are willing and eager to fill in the role of President. So Mr. Benoit be an honest and professional man and do the honourable thing and step down from the NYC. There will be conflict of interest if you don’t.

    • The Facts
      February 27, 2015

      “intention”
      You act as if he did something radically wrong. Did he harm you or anyone else by deciding to remain as President of NYC.
      Whose business is it anyway? Certainly not yours and those who are giving adverse advice.
      Leave him alone! Let him do what he feels like doing. Do not hinder him. If he were a UWP politician, you would congratulate him and compliment him. This is how unfair some of you.
      Many politicians (of the world) are involved in other activities and in programs with the youths. They are not always in Parliament. They are giving their time, their spare time to their community and also assisting the youths. There is nothing wrong with that. It is also as a hobby but assisting others. Why not he? Be broadminded. Some of you are like children who still have a lot to learn.

  33. bill board
    February 25, 2015

    another gentleman bites the dust hungry for power

  34. Positively Dominican
    February 25, 2015

    Rosa Parks
    I agree with you 100%. Now that Benoit has a political appointment as DLP Senator, I think he should vacate the post of President of the National Youth Council to allow another youth the opportunity to shine in a non-partisan role. As the President of the National Youth Council, impartiality must prevail.
    Let us develop all our youth. National Youth Council should have a new president!!

  35. Liberty
    February 25, 2015

    Senator Benoit should now step aside and allow aYoung person to gain political experience

  36. prince Perry Klein
    February 25, 2015

    Get out of there bro. Allow another to grasp on this important role after all consider yourself a mentor but you’re now in a political party and i think it would be best you role with your party youth arm. the national youth Counsel should not be compromised like everything else

  37. DEMOCRACY 4 DOMINICA
    February 25, 2015

    Our country is ‘RUN’ by an Absentee Government. They want to reap the benefits without working in the interest of the people who actually pay them!!!
    Dominica must be the ONLY COUNTRY with a’ PHANTOM CABINET ‘ that conduct its affairs REMOTELY!!!!

    • The Facts
      February 27, 2015

      How much do all the people contribute to their salary, commencing with you?

  38. Truth and Justice
    February 25, 2015

    As senator ou now have new responsibilities so you should do the noble thing and step down so the youth can appoint another leader.

  39. TELE
    February 25, 2015

    But what to do with dem UWPITES? Nothing is never in dem man favor. Why those negative comments? Why not congratulate the youth-man instead? OMG! When will they ever say Yes to something good? To them, the good is bad and the bad is good.

    • The Facts
      February 27, 2015

      They do not have it in them to do so. Especially on this Website, you can always tell a DLP from a UWP and vice versa. The UWPs are forever criticizing and debasing others. They have evil traits. They do not want is good for anyone who is a DLP. They need a change of heart.
      I hope Senator Benoit simply ignore them. Their advice is not worth accepting.

  40. ETHICS?
    February 25, 2015

    Where is the ethics in that? the man has been plucked out of thin air to be a labour party senator while serving as the NYC president… this is clearly an attempt by the labour party to influence young people in their favour….

  41. Bull Crap
    February 25, 2015

    first congratulation to the young man. i think this is a great opportunity and achievement. however president of the national youth counsel and still being a senator for nay party i don’t agree with. the national youth counsel is for every youth of this country. this is behold politics and beyond political affiliation.their should be a line between the two. if your gonna be a senator for any party. you should give you the presidency of such an organization.

  42. Titiwi
    February 25, 2015

    Just like apolitical officer in communist countries. Creepy man! I suppose he gets two salaries now and works 96 hrs a week?

  43. Bee
    February 25, 2015

    Sounds like conflict of interest in the making

    • Emile Zapatos
      February 26, 2015

      @Bee…….True. It also means that we do not know when to let go.

  44. Alister Irish
    February 25, 2015

    Thatz my next parlrep wap wap sa pay tay

    • gwaj
      February 25, 2015

      Where is he from? Which constituency?

    • Marlon Xavier
      February 25, 2015

      Are you not ashamed look at your community is there any positive development? Did this corrupt dlp do anything to better our lives in roseau south? i think is best you shut up!!!

  45. NKRUMAH KWAME
    February 25, 2015

    Mr. Benoit, please be aware that I have absolutely nothing against you. Indeed, I am of the view that you have qualities that are not found in the average Dominican youth. However, my difficulty with this situation is that you have been appointed on a PARTISAN level; that is to say appointed by the DLP. The most NEUTRAL thing that should have occured wold have been if your appointment was made by a NON- POLITICAL entity such as the Church or the an NGO. Hope you get my drift.
    HOTEP!

    • The Facts
      February 25, 2015

      However he was appointed and whoever appointed him, is it any of your business? Be non-critical and offer him your congratulations. Is this too difficult to express to a fellow Dominican and one who is doing his utmost to assist the youths of Dominica as he stated?
      He also deserves a compliment. If you love D/ca, your fellowmen and want what is best for them and the betterment of the youths, the future adults, be not hesitant in doing so. Be appreciated.
      What if he was appointed by UWP? What would you have stated? What did you have to state about those whom Linton nominated? We are still awaiting your comments.
      I have not heard one DLP politician oppose them. You projected how unfair, bias and discriminatory you are against Senator Benoit because he is a pro DLP.
      Read your comments again. Sadly and disappointingly, you are one of those who create discord, disunity in Dominica. You want change? First change your heart, yourself.

  46. Neutral
    February 25, 2015

    Congrats!!!!!!!!!!! Continue the great work.

  47. rosa parks
    February 25, 2015

    a bonjay give someone else the opportunity to get the experience man… Y’all want everything for all you self like is all you mother and father that leave an estate for on allu name. Benoir I thought you would have been noble enough to let someone else take over and be president. You need to step down

    • comper larpen
      February 25, 2015

      Nonsense. Give the guy a break!!!!!

      • Emile Zapatos
        February 26, 2015

        This is not nonsense. We do not need a youth council that is bypatisian. They should be free to focus on matters affecting youth without party political preasure

    • The Facts
      February 25, 2015

      Rosa Parks, the lady that she was who encouraged everyone to do their utmost, would never have made such an illiterate comment. Cease using this lady’s name wrongly.
      It appears you know nothing about this lady except her name. You have much to learn about her. I suggest that you read about her and acquaint yourself of her struggles and achievements and the godly legacy and message she left for each one of us, worldwide, to emulate – never give up – strive to do your best with no hatred – and fight the good fight for the better of all and country.
      If black Americans are aware of your type of comment, they would be angry with you and also that you use Rosa Parks name inappropriately. :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted: :mrgreen:

      • an island son
        February 26, 2015

        Likewise Mr Facts, try using an appropriate name like ‘educated fool’ or ‘a learned imbecile ‘

      • Rosa Parks
        February 26, 2015

        Read over your comments and tell me who is the illiterate. Go and be productive with your self. You all just want to stifle people’s opinion but mines will forever be voiced!!!!!!!!!!! who vex loss. You can eat that for your supper if you don’t have any tonight. I find you rude. The country will forever remain backwards with people like you still around. Everyone will never agree on the same thing stop trying to force people to share your opinion…. Stop trying to be a manipulator.

    • Harlem Youth
      February 26, 2015

      How is it that he wants everything for himself? Who is “allu”? The article only speaks of one person. The NYCD is a democratic organization, Mr. Benoit was VOTED in, and the group obviously reached a general consensus in choosing to have him remain as President because of his exemplary leadership skills and dedication to youth empowerment. All the members of the NYCD are NOT supporters of the DLP, but anyone who has been closely affiliated with the group knows Mr. Benoit has been doing a good job. NYCD General Elections is due soon, at that point voters (youth island-wide) will let their votes speak again. Please don’t bring petty partisan politics into this, most of the people commenting negatively cared less about the affairs of the Youth of Dominica in particular the NYCD, before the President was appointed as an Honourable Senator. God bless!

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